Inflatable bariatric clamp

ABSTRACT

A bariatric clamp may include substrate members overmolded in polymer forming first and second elongated portions, a bight portion having a flexible hinge, one or more inflatable portions disposed at least partially along interior sections of the first and second elongated portions; and a port coupled to at least one of the inflatable portions and configured to adjust inflation of the inflatable portions. The inflatable portions are provided to assist in retaining the clamp in a closed position to partition the stomach and to adjust a pressure of the clamp when partitioning the stomach.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/359,529 entitled “INFLATABLE BARIATRIC CLAMP” filed on Jul. 7, 2016, the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any purpose.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to surgical clamps and surgical clamp installation tools.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

Recently, there has been increased interest in employing surgical clamps to partition sections of a stomach. An example of a bariatric surgical clamp can be found in Jacobs et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/984,452, Jacobs et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/797,537 and Jacobs et al. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/017,666. The aforementioned patent applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for any purpose.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a bariatric clamp comprising: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion; a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion; a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; an inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; and a port coupled to the inflatable portion and configured to adjust inflation of the inflatable portion.

In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a bariatric clamp installation system, comprising: a bariatric clamp, the bariatric clamp including: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion, a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion, a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp, a first inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the first elongated portion, a second inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the second elongated portion, and a port coupled to at least one of the first and second inflatable portions and configured to adjust inflation of at least one of the first and second inflatable portions; and a bariatric clamp installation tool, the bariatric clamp installation tool including: an elongated member having a chamber extending from a proximal end of the elongated member to a distal end of the elongated member, the elongated member configured to retain the bariatric clamp in an open position along a length of the elongated member, a cable member having a proximal end and a distal end, the cable member extending along a length of the chamber of the elongated member, a handle positioned adjacent the proximal end of the elongated member and attached to the proximal end of the cable member, wherein the handle is configured to engage the cable member, and an articulating head located at the distal end of the elongated member and attached to the distal end of the cable member, wherein the articulating head is configured to articulate a portion of the bariatric clamp in response to the handle engaging the cable member.

Further embodiments and apparatuses, including other areas of applicability, will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of various embodiments of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a view of an embodiment of a surgical clamp engaged with an embodiment of a surgical clamp installation tool having an articulating head;

FIGS. 2(a)-2(c) illustrate engagement of the surgical clamp to the articulating head of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 2(d) illustrates the surgical clamp in an open position;

FIG. 2(e) illustrates the surgical clamp after actuation to a closed position;

FIG. 2(f) illustrates a top view of the surgical clamp;

FIG. 2(g) illustrates a left side view of the surgical clamp;

FIG. 2(h) illustrates a bottom view of the surgical clamp;

FIG. 2(i) illustrates a right side view of the surgical clamp;

FIG. 2(j) illustrates a view facing the distal end of the surgical clamp

FIG. 2(k) illustrates a view facing the proximal end of the surgical clamp;

FIG. 3(a) is a left side view of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 3(b) is a top view of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 3(c) a right side view of the surgical clamp installation tool with the right side of the housing of the handle shown removed;

FIG. 3(d) is a bottom view of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 3(e) is a view facing the distal end of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 3(f) is a view facing the proximal end of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 4(a) is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary surgical clamp installation tool with the right side of the housing of the handle shown removed;

FIGS. 4(b), 4(c), 4(d), and 4(e) provide side cutaway views of various aspects of an embodiment of the surgical clamp installation tool;

FIG. 5 is a view of another embodiment of a surgical clamp engaged with another embodiment of a surgical clamp installation tool having an articulating head;

FIG. 6A is a top view of a rigid member having a male clasp end for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6B is a side view of the rigid member of FIG. 6A having the male clasp end for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6C is a side view showing the male clasp end of FIG. 6B in greater detail;

FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the rigid member of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a top view of a rigid member having a female clasp end for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7B is a side view of the rigid member of FIG. 7A having the female clasp end for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7C is a side view showing the female clasp end of FIG. 7B in greater detail;

FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the rigid member of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a top view of a spring member for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8B is a side view of the spring member for the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional, close-up view showing a cross-section of the spring member of FIG. 8B;

FIG. 8D is a proximal end view of the spring member of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9A is a side view of the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9B is a bottom view of the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9C is a proximal end view of the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9D is a perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating the surgical clamp installed in a substantially vertical position on a human stomach;

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an embodiment of a method for clamping an internal organ;

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating another embodiment of a method for clamping an internal organ;

FIG. 13 is a view of yet another embodiment of a surgical clamp engaged with yet another embodiment of a surgical clamp installation tool having an articulating head;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15(a) is a top view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15(b) is a left view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15(c) is a bottom view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15(d) is a right view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15(e) is a proximal spring end on view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 15(f) is a distal latch end on view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a detailed view of a latch end of a bottom arm of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17(a) is a top view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17(b) is a left view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17(c) is a bottom view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17(d) is a right view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17(e) is a proximal handle end on view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 17(f) is a distal head end on view of the surgical clamp installation tool of FIG. 13;

FIG. 18 is a detailed left side view of a handle end of the surgical clamp installation tool FIG. 13 in which the left side of the handle housing is shown removed;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the surgical clamp of FIG. 14 having a silicone sleeve engaged therewith;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 19 in a disengaged state;

FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a proximal end-on view of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a top view of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 20;

FIG. 24 is a left side view of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 20;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a distal end of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a proximal end of the silicone sleeve of FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of a proximal end of FIG. 23;

FIG. 28 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of performing endoscopic surgery utilizing the silicone sleeve, clamp, and installation tool of FIGS. 13-27;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material;

FIGS. 30(a) and 30(b) illustrate respective side and perspective views of the one-piece surgical clamp of FIG. 29, wherein the polymer material is illustrated semitransparent to show the first and second substrate members;

FIGS. 31(a) and 31(b) illustrate the respective first and second substrate members of the one-piece surgical clamp of FIG. 29;

FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an installation tool used to install a one-piece surgical clamp;

FIGS. 34(a), 34(b) and 34(c) illustrate various views of yet another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material;

FIG. 36 is a flow diagram illustrating an embodiment of a method for clamping an internal organ;

FIG. 37 is a flow diagram illustrating another embodiment of a method for clamping an internal organ;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a two-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members, each overmolded in a polymer material;

FIGS. 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c) illustrate various views of the two-piece surgical clamp of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a two-piece surgical clamp comprised of first and second substrate members, each overmolded in a polymer material;

FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) illustrate various views of an embodiment of a bariatric clamp;

FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b) illustrate an embodiment of an adjustable bariatric clamp in a retracted position and an extended position, respectively;

FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b) illustrate an embodiment of an adjustable bariatric clamp in a retracted position and an extended position, respectively;

FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b) illustrate an embodiment of an adjustable bariatric clamp having a ratchet feature, wherein the clamp is shown in a retracted position and an extended position, respectively;

FIG. 45 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of installing a bariatric clamp;

FIG. 46 illustrates the bariatric clamp of FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) in a substantially expanded position;

FIG. 47 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of inserting a bariatric clamp into the abdominal cavity of the patient;

FIGS. 48(a) and 48(b) illustrate various views of a patient's stomach;

FIGS. 49(a) and 49(b) illustrate various views of an example embodiment of an alignment device;

FIGS. 50(a), 50(b), 50(c) and 50(d) illustrate an embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp in various closed and opened positions;

FIGS. 51(a), 51(b) and 51(c) illustrate an embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp in various contorted positions;

FIG. 52(a) illustrates an embodiment of the disclosed clamp in a closed position, wherein the flexible hinge is in a compressed, or non-expanded position;

FIG. 52(b) illustrates an embodiment of the disclosed clamp in the closed position wherein the flexible hinge is stretched or expanded;

FIGS. 53(a)-53(e) illustrate various views of the engagement feature and fastener portion of an embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp;

FIG. 54(a) illustrates an embodiment wherein an embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp is installed on a stomach and first and second adjustable portions are hinged such that the bight portion is angled in a first direction relative to the first and second elongated portions;

FIG. 54(b) illustrates another embodiment wherein an embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp is installed on a stomach and first and second adjustable portions are hinged such that the bight portion is angled in a second direction relative to the first and second elongated portions;

FIG. 55 illustrates an embodiment of the disclosed clamp having suturing needles embedded in the polymer overmolding;

FIGS. 56(a) and 56(b) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp having a single insert along each elongated portion;

FIGS. 56(c) and 56(d) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp having a plurality of inserts along each elongated portion;

FIGS. 57(a)-57(c) illustrate various embodiments of the clamp having the inserts positioned in different locations within the elongated portions of the clamp;

FIGS. 58(a) and 58(b) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp having a single insert along each elongated portion and having no fastener or engagement portions;

FIGS. 58(c) and 58(d) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp having a plurality of inserts along each elongated portion and having no fastener or engagement portions;

FIGS. 59(a) and 59(b) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp having curved elongated portions;

FIG. 60(a) illustrates a perspective view of a patient's stomach;

FIG. 60(b) illustrates a cross section view of the stomach shown in FIG. 60(a);

FIG. 61 illustrates the embodiment of the clamp having curved elongated portions as installed on a patient's stomach;

FIG. 62 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp;

FIGS. 63(a)-63(n) illustrate various embodiments of cross-sectional views of an elongated portion of the clamp illustrated in FIG. 62;

FIG. 64 illustrates an example embodiment of a polymer overmolded bariatric clamp with suture portions;

FIG. 65 illustrates a perspective view of the clamp of FIG. 64, wherein the polymer material is illustrated semitransparent to show the first and second substrate members;

FIGS. 66(a) and 66(b) illustrate example embodiments of the respective first and second substrate members of the clamp of FIG. 64;

FIGS. 67(a), 67(b), and 67(c) illustrate various views of an embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 64 with a portion of the overmolding removed to show a portion of the underlying substrate;

FIG. 68 illustrates a view of the first elongated portion of the polymer overmolded bariatric clamp of FIG. 64;

FIG. 69 illustrates a view of the second elongated portion of the polymer overmolded bariatric clamp of FIG. 64 having a portion of the polymer overmolding removed to show the underlying substrate member;

FIG. 70 illustrates an example embodiment of a polymer overmolded bariatric clamp having an opening in the flexible hinge of the bight portion of the clamp;

FIG. 71 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 70, wherein the flexible hinge includes substrate members;

FIG. 72 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 70, wherein the flexible hinge includes substrate members positioned in an overlapping position;

FIG. 73 illustrates the flexible hinge of FIG. 72 in a stretched position wherein the substrate members encompass the opening of the flexible hinge;

FIG. 74 illustrates an example embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 70, wherein the flexible hinge includes a wired member;

FIG. 75 illustrates an embodiment of the wired member having a ring portion embedded within the overmolding of the flexible hinge and positioned around the circumference of the opening;

FIG. 76 illustrates an embodiment of the wired member having a ring portion positioned outside of the overmolding and within the perimeter of the opening;

FIG. 77 illustrates an example embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 74 in a relaxed position wherein the wired member has extra slack embedded within the flexible hinge;

FIG. 78 illustrates the clamp of FIG. 77 in a stretched position wherein the slack of the wired member is utilized to allow the flexible hinge to stretch;

FIG. 79 illustrates an example embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 70 wherein the flexible hinge includes an eyelet;

FIGS. 80(a) and 80(b) illustrate an example embodiment of the clamp of FIG. 70 having a plate installed over the bight portion of the clamp;

FIG. 81 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having a T-fastener embedded within the flexible hinge for affixing the clamp to the stomach;

FIG. 82 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having a loop pre-attached to a suture portion for facilitating quick and easy suture of the clamp to the stomach;

FIG. 83 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having a barbed suture string with a hook at a distal end thereof for facilitating quick and easy suture of the clamp to the stomach;

FIG. 84 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having a suture string with a T-shaped fastener at a distal end thereof for facilitating quick and easy suture and anchoring of the clamp to the stomach;

FIGS. 85(a) and 85(b) illustrate an embodiment of a clamp having inflatable portions for retaining the clamp in a substantially closed position;

FIG. 86 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp having inflatable portions, wherein the inflatable portions are positioned within the polymer overmolding and within recesses of the substrate members, and having a port positioned on each of the elongated portions of the clamp;

FIG. 87 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp having inflatable portions, wherein the inflatable portions are positioned between surfaces of the substrate members and the interior surface of the polymer overmolding, and having a port positioned at the flexible hinge portion of the clamp;

FIG. 88 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp having inflatable portions, wherein the inflatable portions are positioned on an interior surface of the polymer overmolding, and having a port positioned on each of the elongated portions of the clamp;

FIG. 89 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp having inflatable portions, wherein the clamp is installed on a patient's stomach and having a subcutaneous port for adjusting the pressure of the inflatable portions from outside the patient's body;

FIG. 90 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp having inflatable portions, wherein the inflatable portions are shown in an inflated state;

FIG. 91 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having inflatable portions and suture portions, wherein the inflatable portions are shown in an inflated state;

FIG. 92 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having inflatable substrate members;

FIG. 93 illustrates another example embodiment of a clamp having inflatable substrate members;

FIG. 94 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp having sets of inflatable substrate members;

FIG. 95(a) illustrates an example embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp having inflatable substrate members, wherein the clamp is installed on a stomach and first and second adjustable portions are hinged such that the bight portion is angled in a first direction relative to the first and second elongated portions;

FIG. 95(b) illustrates another example embodiment of the disclosed bariatric clamp having inflatable substrate members, wherein the clamp is installed on a stomach and first and second adjustable portions are hinged such that the bight portion is angled in a second direction relative to the first and second elongated portions; and

FIG. 96 illustrates another example embodiment of a bariatric clamp according to the various example embodiments discussed herein and further having a tip string configured to aid installation of the bariatric clamp.

In some figures, dimensions are given in inches. However, it should be understood that various embodiments are not limited to the dimensions provided. Such dimensions are purely illustrative.

In some figures, broken lines indicate variability in length of the discontinuous portions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood at the outset that although an exemplary implementation of the present invention is illustrated below, the present invention may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or in existence. The present invention should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplary design and implementations illustrated and described herein. Additionally, the drawings contained herein are not necessarily drawn to scale, and may be provided in a variety of different dimensions, shapes and configurations. Any provided dimensions are provided only to illustrate a particular exemplary implementation, and should in no way be construed to limit the present invention absent an explicit recitation of such dimensions and then only with respect to the aspect or aspects reciting the dimension or dimensions.

Referring to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a surgical clamp 100 (also referred to herein as a bariatric clamp) engages with an embodiment of a surgical clamp installation tool 102. In these embodiments, the clamp 100 and the installation tool 102 are designed for performing bariatric surgery through a surgical trocar. The clamp 100, in a preferred embodiment, may be approximately fifteen to thirty centimeters in length to accommodate partitioning of a human stomach. To accommodate insertion through a trocar, the closed clamp 100 will preferably have a diameter or circumference less than fifteen millimeters over the entirety of its length or along the majority of its length. A non-handle section of the installation tool 102 intended for insertion through the trocar has a similar diameter or a smaller diameter. It is envisioned that other embodiments of the clamp and installation tool can be of other sizes. It is additionally envisioned that the clamp may be articulated in at least one plane to provide different angles and lengths of partition to the stomach. It is also envisioned that other embodiments of the clamp and installation tool can be used for clamping other parts of the human body and/or for clamping other types of bodies or structures. Finally, it should be understood that the installation tool 102 may be used to install embodiments of the surgical clamp other than those explicitly illustrated in the figures.

Referring to FIG. 2(a), the surgical clamp 100 has two elongated members 104A and 104B. A bight portion 106 joins the two elongated members at a proximal end of the clamp 100 and biases the two elongated members in an open position at a distal end of the clamp 100. As used herein, a bight is a loop, bend, hinge, corner angle, hollow, fold, or similar structure. In some embodiments, the bight portion has one or more engagement features, such as, for example, a slotted aperture 108 such as that shown in FIG. 2(b). It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the engagement feature(s) of the bight portion may be referred to as an attachment feature. A clasp mechanism, in one embodiment, has a male component 110 disposed on one of the two elongated members at the distal end, and a female component 112 disposed on the other of the two elongated members at the distal end.

Particularly to partially partition a stomach in performing bariatric surgery, spacing between the two elongated members 104A and 104B effects two or more clamp sections as best shown in FIG. 2(e). At least one of the sections is a partition forming section 105A located nearer the distal end of the clamp 100 than the proximal end of the clamp 100. At least another of the sections is a passage forming section 105B located nearer the proximal end of the clamp 100, such as near the bight portion 106, than the distal end of the clamp 100.

In order to reduce injury to the partitioned organ, a padding material 116 can be connected to one or more of the two elongated members. For example, padding material 116 can connect to the elongated member 104B at least at a location corresponding to at least part of the partition forming section. In some embodiments, the padding material can be composed predominantly of silicone or fully of silicone, or other polymer material. It is also envisioned that the opposing limbs of the clamp may be fitted with magnets to facilitate closure.

In some embodiments, the engagement feature at the proximal end of the clamp 100 can be a slotted aperture 108 as shown in FIG. 2(b) having a width and a length larger in size than the width. The length of the slotted aperture can be oriented perpendicular or angled with reference to a longitudinal axis of the clamp 100. It is envisioned that other type engagement features can be employed, such as a socket, a loop, a hook, a clasp, a string, magnet, etc.

In some embodiments, the male component 110 of the clasp at the distal end of the clamp can be an end of the elongated member 104A that flares away from a longitudinal axis of the clamp when the clamp is forced to a closed position. Accordingly, the female component 112 can be a loop attached to the end of the elongated member 104B and disposed to engage the male component 110 of the elongated member 104A when the clamp is forced to the closed position. This can be seen more clearly in connection with FIG. 2(e). It is envisioned that other types of clasp components can be employed, such as those found in a hinge, such as a living hinge, hook and loop, spring ring, lobster or trigger, toggle, tube, bolt and bolt hole, screw and threaded aperture, or any other type of closure arrangement.

Returning to FIG. 1 and referring generally to both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the clamp 100, in use, engages with the installation tool by the slotted aperture 108. For example, the installation tool 102 has an elongated member, such as a pull-rod 138, having a proximal end and a distal end that has an engagement feature. The distal end of the elongated member of the installation tool 102 engages with the proximal end of the clamp 100 through the slotted aperture 108 of the bight portion 106. In some embodiments, the engagement feature takes the form of a T-bar 118. This T-bar 118 is sized and shaped to allow insertion thereof through the slotted aperture 108 to engage the clamp 100. It is envisioned that another engagement features may have an X-shape, and be sized for insertion through an X-shaped slot in the clamp. Other shapes are also possible.

The installation tool 102 may include a lever radially engaged with the pull-rod at its proximal end at a handle 122 that may be configured as a thumbwheel 120 that extends out of the handle 122 of the installation tool 102 through an aperture. While the T-bar 118 is inserted through the slotted aperture 108, actuating the thumbwheel 120 can cause the T-bar 118 to rotate ninety degrees as illustrated in one embodiment from a first position shown in FIG. 2(c) and in a second position as shown in FIG. 2(d).

At this point, retracting the pull rod, which may be achieved by squeezing a trigger 128 to retract the pull rod, forces the proximal end of the clamp 100 up against and progressively further between guide members of the surgical clamp installation tool 102, such as a pair of wedges 124A and 124B, formed in the articulating head 126 of the installation tool 102 (see FIG. 2(b)). A curvature or incline imparted to the articulating head of the installation tool 102 by the pair of wedges can be keyed to a curvature or incline of the bight portion 106 of the clamp 100 in such a way that fully or more fully retracting the pull-rod forces the normally open clamp 100 to a closed position such as that shown in FIG. 2(e).

Turning to FIGS. 2(f)-2(k), the various clamp features can be readily appreciated. These features include bight portion 106, slotted aperture 108, male component 110, female component 112, and padding material 116. It should be readily understood that the padding material 116 can be configured as a pair of sleeves as shown, but that other configurations may also be employed. Moreover, non-linear shapes may be utilized for various types of applications in clamping various types of organs, as desired.

Turning now to FIG. 3 and referring generally to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, retraction of the pull-rod of the installation tool 102 is accomplished by actuation or movement of another lever or trigger that is engaged to the proximal end of the pull-rod, such as through an axial engagement. This lever can be configured as the trigger 128 that extends out of the handle 122 through an aperture or slotted opening. The shape of the handle and disposition of the trigger are, preferably, ergonomically configured to allow the surgeon to hold the installation tool parallel to the ground near waist level to grip the handle 122 and the trigger 128 in one hand. The thumbwheel 120 is disposed to be within easy reach of the thumb of that hand to facilitate holding of the clamp 100 by the surgeon in the other hand while engaging the clamp to the articulating head 126. The thumbwheel 120 may be conveniently adjusted to rotate the T-bar 118 to a desired position to lock the T-bar 118 to the clamp 100 at the bight portion 106 through the slotted aperture 108. In one embodiment, the thumbwheel 120 may rotate the T-bar 118 by ninety degrees.

Once the surgeon has rotated and retracted the pull-rod using T-bar 118 and trigger 128 with one hand, the surgeon's other hand becomes free for other tasks, such as actuating yet another lever protruding from the handle 122 and configured, for example, as a dial 130. With the clamp 100 pulled closed or partially closed against the pair of wedges, the head 126 can be articulated from side to side by rotating this dial 130. The motion of the articulating head 126 through rotation of the dial 130 is illustrated in one embodiment in the top view of the installation tool 102 in FIG. 3(b) at arrow 300 showing a range of motion or articulation in one embodiment.

Turning now to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, turning the dial 130 can turn a hub 132 or connector inside or adjacent the handle 122 that is connected to a pair of guidelines 134A and 134B. These guidelines 134A and 134B, together with pull-rod 138, may extend through an elongated, rigid sleeve, such as a cylindrical tube 136, for connection on either side of a swivel mount of the articulating head 126. It is envisioned that the guidelines can be flexible or rigid, that the cylindrical tube 136 can be rigid or semi-rigid, and that the pull-rod 138 can be rigid or semi-rigid. By semi-rigid, it is meant that the pull-rod 138 can be flexible or partially flexible at least in the plane of articulation along at least part of its length near the distal end of the installation tool 102, but still axially and rotationally rigid or semi-rigid along its length. Thus, when the installation tool 102 and clamp 100 are held parallel to the ground, the pull-rod 138 can be rotated and retracted by actuation of the thumbwheel 120 and trigger 128, and the head 126 can be articulated in a plane orthogonal to the gravity vector by manipulation of the dial 130. The plane of articulation may be adjustable in certain embodiments, or may be set in a desired plane that is not orthogonal to the gravity vector.

Turning now to FIG. 5, other embodiments of the clamp 200 and installation tool 202 can include a clamp 200 made of multiple pieces, a longer main tube 204, and a thumb lever 206 on the dial 130 to articulate the head of the tool 102 that is attached to the clamp 200. In some embodiments, the clamp 200 can be a three-piece clamp. A ratchet release 208 can also be provided on the installation tool 202 that, when pressed, allows the pull rod to extend, which in turn will release the clamp 200 allowing it to reopen. In other words, as the surgeon presses on the trigger 210, causing the pull-rod to retract and the clamp 200 to close, a ratchet mechanism catches the trigger 210 in the pressed-in position. Thus, the pull-rod will remain retracted and clamp 200 will not reopen even if the surgeon releases pressure on the trigger 210.

Turning now to FIG. 6, and referring generally to FIGS. 6A-6D, one piece of a three-piece clamp can be a rigid member 212 having a male clasp end 214. As will be described further below with reference to FIG. 9, this rigid member 212 serves as one of the elongated members of the clamp 200 for forming the partition that divides the stomach. It can be made of plastic, metal, or any other rigid material. An example material is hardened titanium. FIG. 6(c) demonstrates an exemplary contour of male clasp end 214, while FIG. 6(d) demonstrates an exemplary contour rigid member 212. It should be readily understood that the exemplary contour of rigid member 212 renders it concave on an inner surface to be disposed toward an outer surface of an organ to be clamped, and convex on an outer surface for engagement with a spring component. However, other shapes may be used as desired.

Turning next to FIG. 7, and referring generally to FIGS. 7A-7D, another piece of the three-piece clamp can be a rigid member 216 having a female clasp end 218 that includes a hinged loop 220. As will be described further below with reference to FIG. 9, this rigid member 216 serves as one of the elongated members of the clamp for forming the partition that divides the stomach. It can be made of plastic, metal, or any other rigid material. An example material is hardened titanium. Similarly, the loop 220 can be made of various materials, an example of which is titanium wire.

Turning next to FIG. 8, and referring generally to FIGS. 8A-8D, a third piece of the three-piece clamp can be a spring member 222 having a slotted bight portion 224. As will be further described below with reference to FIG. 9, the spring member engages with the rigid members to form the clamp and provides the bight portion that permits formation of a passage between the two partitioned regions of the clamped stomach. It can be made of plastic, metal, or any other springy material. An example material is spring tempered titanium.

Turning now to FIG. 9, and referring generally to FIGS. 9A-9D, the three-piece clamp can be assembled by engaging the rigid members 212 and 216 to the spring member 222. For example, the rigid members can be welded or coupled to arms of spring member at various locations 226. In one embodiment, the rigid members 212 and 216 can be attached to interior surfaces of the arms of spring member 222, with the loop 220 arranged to hinge towards and engage the male clasp end 214 of the distal end of rigid member 212. Thus, the rigid members 212 and 216 are employed to form a partition, while the spring member 222 forms a passage between the partitioned regions of an organ or body as shown in FIG. 10. These rigid members 212 and 216 may be of non-uniform thickness to accommodate gradual closing of the clamp from the proximal end towards the distal end in such a manner that a non-uniform thickness of an organ, such as walls of a stomach, can be clamped without injury. Alternatively or additionally, sleeves of padding material can be slid over the arms of the clamp, and the padding material can be of non-uniform thickness as desired. It is envisioned that rigid members 212 and 216 and padding material of varying lengths, contours, and thicknesses may be provided to accommodate needs of different patients as desired.

Turning now to FIG. 10, some embodiments of the surgical clamp installation tool can be used to install the clamp 100 within an abdominal cavity in order to perform bariatric surgery. In particular, the clamp can be positioned, closed, and latched to partition the stomach into a small vertical portion or pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The vertical pouch 500 receives food at 504, but the food is not able to enter the excluded section 502. Using the installation tool 102 (or 202) to engage with the bight portion 106 of the clamp 100, the clamp 100 may be installed in a substantially vertical position on the stomach in one embodiment. That is, if the human patient having the clamp 100 installed were to stand upright, the longitudinal axis of the clamp 100 would be substantially parallel to the gravity vector. Thus, a passage forming section formed in the bottom of the stomach by the clamp allows gastric juices to flow at 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

Turning to FIG. 11, a method for clamping an internal organ can include inserting a surgical clamp through an opening into a body of a living organism at block 150. Then the two elongated members of the surgical clamp are positioned on opposite sides of an internal organ of the living organism at block 152. At block 154, closing and latching the surgical clamp to partition a cavity inside the internal organ includes clamping the exterior of the internal organ with the two elongated members.

As mentioned above, the internal organ can be a human stomach. In this case, closing and latching the clamp can include installing the clamp in a substantially vertical or angled position with a passage forming section of the clamp located towards a bottom of the stomach. This positioning can create a small, vertical stomach pouch and thereby limit the intake of food into an excluded section or portion of the stomach, but still allow gastric juices from the excluded portion of the stomach to flow into the vertical stomach pouch. This partitioning can alter the production of hormones, enzymes and chemicals that affect metabolism, energy levels, hunger, digestion, and absorption of nutrients that are affected by exclusion of gastric fundus and body of the stomach by the partitioning. Sheathing the elongated members of the clamp in silicone padding material along a majority of their length is intended to reduce trauma and/or necrosis of the stomach or other internal organ and enable successful reversal of the surgery. Thus, the method can further include reversing the surgery by removing the clamp.

Inserting the surgical clamp can include performing natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). Alternatively, or additionally, it can include performing a combination of NOTES and an assistant trocar placed into an abdominal cavity. This combination can include two or more of a conventional, laparoscopic, NOTES, and one port technique. The NOTES technique can include at least one of transgastric, transvaginal, transrectal, transcolonic, or combinations thereof. The one port technique is used for the introduction of several instruments, and encompasses a one port abdominal (including umbilical), perineal, retroperitoneal approaches, or combinations thereof.

Turning to FIG. 12, a method for clamping an internal organ can include engaging a surgical clamp to a head of a surgical clamp installation tool at block 160. At block 162, the surgical clamp installation tool can be employed to close the clamp and insert the clamp through an opening in a body cavity of a living organism. Then the tool can be employed at block 164 to reopen the clamp and to position elongated members of the clamp on opposite sides of an internal organ within the body cavity. Next, at block 166, the tool can be employed to close the clamp upon the internal organ and thereby partition a cavity inside the internal organ. The limbs, arms, or elongated members of the clamp close in such a fashion as causing a gradual diminishing space between the two limbs, as the space opening extends proximally, accounting for the different thickness of the stomach. The clamp closes in a fashion that exerts enough pressure to maintain the opposite walls closed to each other without creating damage/trauma/ischemia to the stomach or other organ walls themselves. Then at block 168, the clamp can be latched to fix it in position to partition the internal organ and the cavity inside the internal organ. Also, at block 170, the clamp can be disengaged from the head of the surgical clamp installation tool, and the tool can be retracted from the body cavity at block 172. It is envisioned that the clamp may be configured to latch automatically when the clamp is fully closed. Alternatively, the tool may first be disengaged and removed, and the clamp subsequently latched using an additional tool. Moreover, additional steps may be employed to secure the clamp in place, such as using sutures.

As already described above, padding material can be employed on surfaces of the elongated members of the surgical clamp to reduce damage to the internal organ that would prevent reversal of the surgical procedure. In other embodiments, the thickness or surface contour of the elongated members or arms of the surgical clamp may be provided to align with the particular organ or body being clamped so as to provide the desired pressure or force at each location of the organ or body being clamped. Additionally, engaging the surgical clamp to the head of the surgical clamp installation tool may include passing a T-bar adjacent the end of a pull rod of the installation tool through a slotted aperture formed in a bight portion of the clamp, and rotating the T-bar using a lever or dial. Also, employing the surgical clamp installation tool to close and reopen the clamp may include operating a lever or trigger on a handle of the installation tool to pull and release the pull rod. Further, employing the surgical clamp installation tool to position the elongated members of the surgical clamp may include manipulating a dial on a handle of the installation tool to articulate the head from side to side in a desired plane(s).

Turning now to FIG. 13, another embodiment of a surgical clamp 600 and surgical installation tool 602 is similar in structure and function to those embodiments described above. One notable difference from the embodiments previously described is that the articulating head 604 of the surgical installation tool 602 is keyed with a curvature or radius configured to hold the clamp 600 securely in place while permitting the clamp 600 to remain in an open position. This configuration permits a surgeon holding the installation tool 602 in one hand to hold the clamp 600 securely in the articulating head 604 of the tool 602 while pressing the distal ends of the clamp 600 together with the other end for entry to a trocar. Once the distal ends of the clamp 600 have entered the trocar, the trocar then holds the ends shut, and permitting the surgeon free use of the other hand. Upon entry to the abdominal cavity, the clamp naturally springs open for engagement with a bodily organ, such as the stomach, and the surgeon can articulate the head from side to side while it is held securely in the head 604 while still in the open position. Once in position, the surgeon can close the clamp using sutures and/or by applying pressure externally or internally using other surgical tools. Thus, in this particular embodiment, the installation tool 602 may not be employed to close the clamp on an internal organ of the patient, but may be employed to hold, insert, and articulate the clamp into position.

Referring now to FIG. 14, clamp 600 can have a three piece design similar to that described above. In other words, it can have a spring member 606 that is comprised predominantly of spring steel, and that is engaged with lower and upper rigid members 608 and 610. These rigid members 608 and 610 can be comprised primarily of titanium, and they can have a concavity that increases their rigidity. In addition, suture holes 612A-612E can be provided in upper rigid member 610, as well as in an upper portion of spring member 606. A surgeon can employ these suture holes 612 to secure the clamp 600 in place on a stomach or other bodily organ. It is envisioned that additional or alternative suture holes 612 can be provided, such as in lower rigid member 608 and lower portion of spring member 606, and that positions of the suture holes 612 can be different from those shown. However, as will be more fully described below with reference to FIGS. 19-27, the placement of suture holes in the upper rigid member 608 and upper portion of spring member 606 can permit suturing of the clamp 600 in place prior to application of a silicone sleeve (see FIGS. 19-27) that slides onto the clamp via the un-sutured lower rigid member 608 and lower portion of spring member 606. Yet, once the sleeve is installed, it should be understood that additional suture holes 612 provided in lower rigid member 608 and/or lower portion of spring member 606 may prove useful in a subsequent application of additional sutures.

Turning now to FIGS. 15(a)-15(f) and referring generally thereto, it should be appreciated that a double row of suture holes 612A-612H can be provided in spring member 606 and upper rigid member 610, a distal portion of which can exhibit a male clasp feature 614 positioned to engage a female clasp feature, such as a wire loop 616, of lower rigid member 608. Suture holes 612D and 612E can be positioned on spring member 606 at a location that lies between a position at which upper rigid member 610 is engaged to spring member 606, and a position at which a slot 618 is formed in a bight portion of spring member 606. In the case that the distal end of upper rigid member 610 exhibits a male clasp feature 614, such as a planular curvature away from a plane in which the upper rigid member 610 predominantly lies, a complimentary female clasp feature can be exhibited by a distal end of lower rigid member 608, such as the aforementioned rectangular wire loop 616 engaged by a hinge formation 620 provided in the distal end of lower rigid member 608. It should be readily understood that the same functionality can be achieved if upper rigid member 610 exhibits the female clasp feature, and lower rigid member 608 exhibits male clasp feature 614. Thus, the positions of the clasp features can be reversed in other embodiments.

Turning now to FIG. 16, another additional feature of clamp 600 can be a detent 622 that is formed in hinge formation 620, and that engages wire loop 616 of the female clasp feature. This detent 622 can be positioned on the hinge formation 620 at a location that is most distal when the clamp 600 is held in a closed position, and it can be sized and shaped to hold the wire loop 616 in a lowered position at which the loop 616 lies in a plane parallel to a plane in which lower rigid member 608 predominantly lies. A similar or identical detent (not shown) can be provided on an opposite side of hinge formation 620, and it can be similarly distally positioned to assist in holding the wire loop 616 in the aforementioned lowered position. This lowered position allows the clamp 600 to be inserted through a trocar and guided to enclose a bodily organ, such as a stomach, at which point the aforementioned silicone sleeve (see FIGS. 19-27) can be partially applied. Then, before the silicone sleeve is fully engaged to the clamp 600, wire loop 616 can be forced out of detent 622 into a raised position at which it engages the male clasp feature 614 of the clamp 600.

Before raising the wire loop 616, it is envisioned that the clamp 600 can be pressed into a closed position by use of two or more graspers inserted into the abdominal cavity through additional trocars (i.e., multiport technique). Then, a suture tag pre-applied to wire loop 616 can be used to force wire loop 616 out of detent 622 into the raised position, resulting in the wire loop 616 engaging the male clasp feature 614 and holding the clamp 600 in the closed position without assistance from the two or more graspers. Alternatively or additionally, it is envisioned that closing and latching of the clamp 600 can be achieved by utilizing any suitable endoscopic surgical tools and techniques as will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the present disclosure.

Turning now to FIGS. 17(a)-17(f) and referring generally thereto, an endoscopic surgical installation tool for engaging and manipulating the clamp can be similar to those described above. For example, the installation tool can have a handle 650, trigger 652, pull rod, T-bar 654, cylindrical tube 656, dial 658 (e.g., with thumb lever), hub, guidelines, and articulating head 604 that are identical or similar to those described above. However, as previously described, a curvature or incline imparted to the head 604 by wedges of the head 604 can be keyed to a bight portion of the previously described clamp so as to hold the clamp in a fully open or predominantly open position when T-bar 654 has been fully retracted by actuation of trigger 652. Additionally, a latch release 660 can be provided that can extend from both sides of handle 650 for ergonomic, ambidextrous operation.

Turning now to FIG. 18, the latch release 660 can have a hinged plate with a retention spring that forces the latch release 660 upwards to engage a latch 662 provided at a proximal end of pull rod 664. In use, a surgeon can engage the T-bar to the clamp 600 by rotating the clamp 600 and/or installation tool in a common longitudinal axis until the T-bar fits through the notch in the bight portion of the clamp 600, and then rotating the clamp 600 and/or installation tool an integer multiple of ninety degrees until a length direction of the T-Bar is perpendicular to a length direction of the notch. Then, actuation of trigger 652 can retract pull rod until opposing latch surfaces (e.g., edges, extensions, faces, flanges, gouges, hooks, inclines, ledges, lips, notches, overhangs, projections, protrusions, ribs, ridges, skirts, serrations, slits, slots, teeth, wedges, and combinations thereof) of the latch 662 and release 660 can catch and hold the pull rod 664 in a fully retracted or predominantly retracted position.

Once the latch 662 is engaged, the clamp 600 is ready to be inserted into an inflated abdominal cavity through a trocar as described above, and a seal provided between cylindrical tube 656 and clevis 668 can prevent out gassing from the abdominal cavity through the head 604 and/or cylindrical tube 656. Alternatively, the seal can be provided anywhere inside cylindrical tube 656. In some embodiments, the seal is achieved by using a circular silicone die having a slit and a hole in the middle, with the pull rod 664 threaded through the hole.

Once the clamp 600 is in position within the abdominal cavity to enclose and partition the stomach or other organ, pressing down on latch release 660 can permit automatic extension of pull rod 664 by action of a torsion spring provided to trigger screw 666 to force de-actuation of trigger 652. The T-bar can then be disengaged from the clamp by rotating the installation tool along its longitudinal axis an integer multiple of ninety degrees and removing it from the trocar. Thus, it should be apparent that, in some embodiments, the pull rod may not be configured to rotate as in alternative embodiments described above, but only to retract and to extend.

Turning now to FIG. 19, a silicone sleeve 700 can be configured to engage clamp 600. In some embodiments, silicone sleeve 700 can be formed to cover primarily an upper arm and both ends of clamp 600. This silicone sleeve 700 can be used as padding to protect surrounding organs from irritation or damage. Thickness of the silicone can be varied for different applications, such as partitioning an organ, stomach, or vessel.

Turning now to FIGS. 20-27 and referring generally thereto, the silicone sleeve 700 can have tubular section 702 at a proximal end that slides onto the lower arm of clamp and can be manipulated into position to encapsulate the previously described bight portion of the clamp. The clamp can then be closed and latched as described above. Presuming that the upper arm of the clamp has already been sutured to the organ, stomach, or vessel, a distal end of the sleeve 700 can then be engaged to encapsulate the distal end of the clamp. For this purpose, the distal end of the sleeve 700 can be configured as a latch cap 704 that is form fitted to the closed latch features (see FIG. 25). A padding strip 706 situated between the tubular section 702 and latch cap 704 can be sized to a length of the clamp so as to be stretched taught across the upper arm of the clamp once the sleeve 700 is installed. A slot engaging feature 708 formed inside of tubular section 702 can be provided to engage with the previously described slot in the bight portion of the clamp by plugging the slot, and thus hold the tubular section of the sleeve 700 in place on the bight portion of the clamp.

Turning now to FIG. 28, a method of performing surgery can begin at step 750 by engaging the previously described clamp to the previously described surgical installation tool in one or more of the previously described manners. Thereafter, the clamp can be inserted through a trocar at step 752, and positioned to enclose an organ (e.g., stomach, vessel, etc.) at step 754. Next, at step 756, an upper arm of the clamp can be sutured to the organ though suture holes supplied in the clamp as previously described, and the installation tool can be disengaged and removed from the trocar at step 758. Thereafter, the previously described silicone sleeve can be slid over a lower arm of the clamp at step 760 as previously described, and the clamp can be closed and latched at step 762. Finally, at step 764, a latch cap of the silicone sleeve can be fit over the latch of the clamp, and additional sutures can be applied if desired. It should be understood that the sequence of the aforementioned steps can vary in additional or alternative embodiments, and that additional or alternative steps can be employed as will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art.

FIGS. 29-40 and the accompanying description disclose various embodiments of a surgical clamp overmolded in a polymer material. The surgical clamp is, in one implementation, a laparoscopically implanted device which, when closed and latched or secured, partitions a patient's stomach into two sections, such as two vertical sections or other divisions. The clamp may be installed using standard surgical tools (e.g., clamps, scissors, etc.) and/or, in some embodiments, an installation tool, such as one of the installation tools discussed herein. When the clamp is installed, in one installation, the lesser curvature segment of the stomach forms the Magenstrasse, and the greater curvature segment, including the fundus, is generally excluded from nutritional contact. In one implementation, the clamp includes, at a proximal end, an aperture with an enlarged radius (generally referred to hereafter as the bight portion or passage-forming section), by which gastric juices created by the fundus and the body can empty into the atrum. By excluding the fundus, the clamp may alter or reduce hormones such as, for example, ghrelin, leading to the patient's loss of hunger. Additionally, the clamp acts as a restrictive procedure by reducing the size of the Magenstrasse by creating a small lumen for a vertical passageway of the nutrients along the lesser curvature.

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment, wherein the fully or partially overmolded surgical clamp is of a one-piece design. The one-piece clamp 2900 includes first and second substrate members (shown in FIGS. 30(a), 30(b), 31(a) and 31(b)) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 2902, a second elongated portion 2904, a bight portion 2906, a fastener portion 2908, and an engagement portion 2914. As mentioned above, the first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904 serve as a partition-forming section of the clamp 2900. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 29 and 10, when the clamp 2900 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 2906 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 2900. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

In accordance with the present disclosure, the term overmolded is intended to describe a product wherein underlying substrate material(s) are substantially fully or partially encapsulated, covered, or coated with one or more layers of one or more overlying materials. For example, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 29, the first and second substrate members comprise the underlying substrate materials, and the overlying polymer or elastomer material comprises the overmolded material, or overmolding. In some embodiments, the overmolding may be of a non-uniform thickness or durometer, or positioned in certain areas, to produce various portions or features (such as a fastener portion, flexible hinge, etc.) and/or to accommodate gradual closing of the clamp from the proximal end towards the distal end in such a manner that a non-uniform thickness of an organ, such as walls of a stomach, can be appropriately clamped without injury. In some embodiments, the overmolded polymer material may comprise silicone such as, for example, an unrestricted implant-grade silicone. In some embodiments, the substrate material may comprise the same material as the overmolding. Additionally, in some embodiments, the substrate material(s) and overmolding material(s) may comprise different or varying materials and/or durometers.

As shown in FIG. 29, the first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904 are joined by the bight portion 2906 at the proximal end of the clamp 2900. The bight portion 2906 includes a flexible hinge 2918 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold, wherein the flexible hinge 2918 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 2906 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section when the clamp 2900 is installed. The flexible hinge 2918 also allows the clamp 2900 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 2900, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 2918 includes one or more attachment features such as, for example, a slotted aperture 2920. The attachment feature may allow the clamp 2900 to be engaged with an installation tool (for example, such as the installation tool shown in FIG. 33) in accordance with the foregoing disclosure. In still other embodiments, the flexible hinge 2918 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 2900, such as the first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904.

When installing the surgical clamp 2900, the clamp 2900 is placed into position as explained in greater detail below, and the fastener portion 2908 and engagement portion 2914 are used to retain the clamp 2900 in a substantially closed position. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 29, the fastener portion 2908 comprises a strap formed from the overmolded polymer or other material and located towards the distal end of the second elongated portion 2904. The strap may include one or more primary openings 2910 for receiving the engagement portion 2914, and a secondary opening 2912 used for adjusting or manipulating the fastener portion 2908 and/or the second elongated portion 2904. For example, a surgeon may use a tool (not shown) to engage the secondary opening 2912 to position the strap such that the engagement portion 2914 engages one of the primary openings 2910. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 29, the engagement portion 2914 comprises a protrusion, such as a hook or tab, for engaging openings of the fastener portion 2908.

In some embodiments, the clamp 2900 may be adjusted by disengaging the engagement portion 2914 from one of the primary openings 2910, and engaging the engagement portion 2914 with another one of the primary openings 2910 to either increase or decrease the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904. In some embodiments, the fastener portion 2908 may be sutured to the first elongated portion 2902 using suture pass-through holes 2916, such as those located along an outside surface of the first elongated portion 2902. Additionally, in some embodiments, once positioned on the stomach, the suture pass-through holes 2916 may be used to suture the clamp 2900 to the stomach walls to avoid displacement. It should be understood that, in some embodiments, sutures may be placed through the overmolding, as described in greater detail below.

Referring now to FIGS. 30(a) and 30(b), the surgical clamp 2900 of FIG. 29 is shown from respective side and perspective views, wherein the polymer material is illustrated semitransparent to show the underlying first substrate member 3001 and second substrate member 3002. As shown in FIGS. 30(a) and 30(b), the first and second substrate members 3001 and 3002 may, in some embodiments, comprise the respective first and second elongated portions 2902 and 2904, as well as at least a part of the bight portion 2906. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first substrate member 3001 may also comprise at least a portion of the engagement feature 2914.

FIGS. 31(a) and 31(b) illustrate the respective first and second substrate members 3001 and 3002 comprising the one-piece clamp 2900 illustrated in FIGS. 29, 30(a) and 30(b). In some embodiments, the first and second substrate members 3001 and 3002 each comprise a 3 mm-thick titanium substrate. As shown in FIG. 31(a), the first substrate member 3001 may include a tab or a hook 3102 comprising at least a portion of the engagement feature 2914, a first section 3104 comprising a part of the first elongated portion 2902, and a second section 3106 comprising a part of the bight portion 2906. As shown in FIG. 31(b), the second substrate member 3002 may include a first section 3108 comprising a part of the second elongated portion 2904 and a second section 3110 comprising a part of the bight portion 2906. It should be understood that the dimensions and materials comprising the substrate members provided herein are merely examples. It is envisioned that the substrate members may be of various thicknesses and lengths, and may be comprised of various biocompatible materials such as titanium or biocompatible polymer resins such as polyether ketone ketone (PEKK) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 29, 30(a), 30(b), 31(a) and 31(b), the polymer overmolded portion of the clamp 2900 is a 1.5 mm-thick layer of polymer material (e.g., silicone) encapsulating the first and second substrate members 3001 and 3002. The flexible hinge 2918 and fastener portion 2908 are formed from the polymer material, and are approximately 6 mm thick to provide a substantially consistent thickness along the surgical clamp 2900. However, as previously discussed, in some embodiments, the polymer material comprising or overmolding one or more portions of the clamp 2900 may have a non-uniform thickness or application. It should be appreciated that the foregoing dimensions are merely examples and are not intended to limit or define any aspects of the clamp or portions thereof.

FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp 3200 comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material. The clamp 3200 includes a first elongated portion 3202, second elongated portion 3204, bight portion 3206 with flexible hinge 3208 and attachment feature 3210, a fastener portion 3212 and an engagement feature 3214. The clamp 3200 illustrated in FIG. 32 is similar to the clamp 2900 illustrated in FIG. 29, except, for example, that the fastener portion 3212 of the clamp 3200 omits the secondary opening 2912.

Referring now to FIG. 33, another example embodiment of an installation tool 3300 is illustrated. The installation tool 3300 is similar to those discussed above, and may be used in a similar manner to engage and install certain embodiments of the surgical clamps illustrated in FIGS. 29-32. Using the installation tool 3300, the clamp may be engaged (via the attachment feature of the bight portion), placed in the abdominal cavity (e.g., via a trocar) and positioned with the first and second elongated portions on opposite sides of the stomach, where the clamp is latched, closed, fastened, secured, or otherwise installed to at least partially partition a cavity inside the stomach as described above.

FIGS. 34(a), 34(b) and 34(c) illustrate various views of yet another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp 3400 comprised of first and second substrate members 3401 and 3402 overmolded in a polymer material 3403. The clamp 3400 includes a first elongated portion 3404, second elongated portion 3406, bight portion 3408 with flexible hinge 3410, a fastener portion 3412 and engagement features 3414 and 3416. The clamp 3400 illustrated in FIGS. 34(a), 34(b) and 34(c) is similar to the clamp 3200 illustrated in FIG. 32. The fastener portion 3412 of the clamp 3400 includes, for example, rounded primary openings 3418, and the bight portion 3412 omits an attachment feature. Additionally, the clamp 3400 incorporates first and second engagement features 3414 and 3416, wherein the first and second engagement features 3414 and 3416 include a raised member and a retaining loop, respectively, formed from the polymer overmolding 3403. In some embodiments, the raised member may also be formed, at least partially, from the first substrate member.

In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 34(a), 34(b) and 34(c), the clamp 3400 may be inserted to an abdominal cavity through a trocar, positioned with the first and second elongated portions 3404 and 3406 on opposite sides of the stomach, and closed and secured by engaging one of the primary openings 3418 with the raised member of the first engagement feature 3414, and securing the fastener portion 3412 under the retaining loop of the second engagement feature 3416. In accordance with the present embodiment, the inserting, positioning, closing and securing steps may be performed using surgical tools (e.g., clamps, forceps, scissors, etc.). However, it should be appreciated that the bight portion 3408 of the clamp 3400 may be modified to include an attachment feature, such as that provided in clamp 2900 or 3200, to allow for the clamp 3400 to be engaged and installed using a surgical clamp installation tool, such as that provided in FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 illustrates another embodiment of a one-piece surgical clamp 3500 comprised of first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material. The clamp 3500 includes a first elongated portion 3502, second elongated portion 3504, bight portion 3506 with flexible hinge 3508, a fastener portion 3510 and engagement features 3512, 3514 and 3516. The clamp 3500 is similar to the clamp 3400 illustrated in FIGS. 34(a), 34(b) and 34(c). The clamp 3500 incorporates an additional engagement member 3516 comprising a retaining loop formed from the polymer overmolding for receiving the fastener portion 3510. The clamp 3500 is installed in a manner similar to the clamp 3400 and may be modified to include an attachment feature, such as that provided in clamp 2900 or 3200, to allow for the clamp 3500 to be engaged and installed using a surgical clamp installation tool, such as that provided in FIG. 33. It should be appreciated that the various embodiments discussed herein may be modified to include different numbers and combinations of engagement features and fastener portion openings without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the aspects below.

Referring now to FIG. 36, a method for clamping an internal organ can include inserting a surgical clamp through an opening (e.g., using a trocar) into a body of a living organism at block 3610. Then the first and second elongated portions of the surgical clamp are positioned on opposite sides of an internal organ of the living organism at block 3620. At block 3630, closing and securing the surgical clamp to partition a cavity inside the internal organ includes clamping the exterior of the internal organ with the two elongated portions.

As mentioned above, the internal organ can be a human stomach. In this case, closing and securing the clamp can include installing the clamp in a substantially vertical or angled position with a passage-forming section of the clamp located towards a bottom of the stomach. This positioning can create a small, vertical stomach pouch and thereby limit the intake of food into an excluded section or portion of the stomach, but still allow certain gastric juices from the excluded portion of the stomach to flow into the vertical stomach pouch. This partitioning can alter the production of hormones, enzymes and chemicals that affect metabolism, energy levels, hunger, digestion, and absorption of nutrients that are affected by exclusion of gastric fundus and body of the stomach by the partitioning. The polymer overmolding of the clamp reduces trauma and/or necrosis of the stomach or other internal organ, thereby enabling successful reversal of the surgery. Thus, the above method can further include reversing the surgery by removing the clamp.

Inserting the surgical clamp can include performing natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). Alternatively, or additionally, it can include performing a combination of NOTES and an assistant trocar placed into an abdominal cavity. This combination can include two or more of a conventional, laparoscopic, NOTES, and one port technique. The NOTES technique can include at least one of transgastric, transvaginal, transrectal, transcolonic, or combinations thereof. The one port technique is used for the introduction of several instruments, and encompasses a one port abdominal (including umbilical), perineal, retroperitoneal approaches, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 37, a method for clamping an internal organ can include engaging a surgical clamp, such as a bariatric clamp, to a head of a surgical clamp installation tool at block 3710. At block 3720, the surgical clamp installation tool can be employed to close the clamp and insert the clamp through an opening in a body cavity of a living organism. Then the tool can be employed at block 3730 to reopen the clamp and to position the first and second elongated portions of the clamp on opposite sides of an internal organ within the body cavity.

Next, at block 3740, the tool can be employed to close the clamp upon the internal organ and thereby partition a cavity inside the internal organ. The limbs, arms, or elongated portions of the clamp close in such a fashion as causing a gradual diminishing space between the two elongated portions, as the space opening extends proximally, accounting for the different thickness of the stomach. The clamp closes in a fashion that exerts enough pressure to maintain the opposite walls closed to each other without creating any undue damage/trauma/ischemia to the stomach or other organ walls themselves. Then at block 3750, the clamp can be latched or otherwise secured to fix it in position to partition the internal organ and the cavity inside the internal organ. Also, at block 3760, the clamp can be disengaged from the head of the surgical clamp installation tool, and the tool can be retracted from the body cavity at block 3770. In some embodiments, the clamp may be latched or secured prior to or after disengaging and removing the surgical clamp installation tool. In such embodiments, the securing of the clamp may be performed using surgical tools alone or in combination with the installation tool. Alternatively, the tool may first be disengaged and removed, and the clamp subsequently latched using the additional surgical tools. Moreover, additional steps may be employed, either before or after the clamp is secured, to secure and position the clamp in place, such as using sutures.

As described above, the polymer overmolding of the surgical clamp reduces damage to the internal organ that would prevent or significantly decrease the likelihood of reversal of the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the thickness or surface contour of the elongated portions of the surgical clamp may be provided to align with the particular organ or body being clamped so as to provide the desired pressure or force at each location of the organ or body being clamped. Additionally, engaging the surgical clamp to the head of the surgical clamp installation tool may include passing a T-bar adjacent the end of a pull rod of the installation tool through a slotted aperture formed in a bight portion of the clamp, and rotating the T-bar using a lever or dial. Also, employing the surgical clamp installation tool to close and reopen the clamp may include operating a lever or trigger on a handle of the installation tool to pull and release the pull rod. Further, employing the surgical clamp installation tool to position the elongated portions of the surgical clamp may include manipulating a dial on a handle of the installation tool to articulate the head from side to side in a desired plane(s).

FIGS. 38, 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c) illustrate an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the polymer overmolded surgical clamp is of a two-piece design. FIG. 38 illustrates a perspective view of the two-piece clamp 3800, and FIGS. 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c) illustrate various views of the clamp 3800, wherein the polymer overmold is illustrated semitransparent to show the underlying first substrate member 3901 and second substrate member 3902. FIG. 39(a) illustrates a profile view of the clamp 3800; FIG. 39(b) illustrates a top-down view of the clamp 3800; and FIG. 39(c) illustrates a cross-sectional view of the clamp 3800 taken along line A-A of FIG. 39(b).

The two-piece clamp 3800 includes first and second substrate members 3901 and 3902 (shown in FIGS. 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c)) overmolded in a polymer material to form a first elongated member 3802 and a separate, second elongated member 3804. The first elongated member 3802 includes a first bight portion 3806 located towards a proximal end of the clamp 3800, and a first elongated portion 3808 located towards a distal end of the clamp 3800. The second elongated member 3804 includes a second bight portion 3810 located towards the proximal end of the clamp 3800 and a second elongated portion 3812 located towards the distal end of the clamp 3800. When the clamp is installed, the first and second bight portions 3806 and 3810 comprise a passage-forming section at the proximal end of the clamp 3800, and the first and second elongated portions 3808 and 3812 comprise a partition-forming section at the distal end of the clamp 3800. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 38 and 10, when the clamp 3800 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 3808 and 3812 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and excluded section 502, and the first and second bight portions 3806 and 3810 are engaged to form a passage that allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

As shown in FIGS. 38, 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c), the first elongated member 3802 includes first and second fastening portions 3814 and 3816 formed at least partially from the polymer overmold at opposite ends of the first elongated member 3802. The second elongated member 3804 includes first and second receiving portions 3818 and 3820 formed from the polymer overmold at opposite ends of the second elongated member 3804, and retention features 3822, 3824, 3826 and 3828 formed at an outer surface of the second elongated member 3804. It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the first and second receiving portions 3818 and 3820 may be formed from the polymer overmold, or a combination of the second substrate material and polymer overmold. Similarly, in some embodiments, the retention features 3822, 3824, 3826 and 3828 may be formed from the polymer overmold, or a combination of the second substrate material and polymer overmold, as shown in FIG. 39(c).

When installing the clamp 3800, the first and second elongated members 3802 and 3804 are inserted into the abdominal cavity (for example, using a trocar) and positioned on opposite sides of the stomach. Then, the first and second fastening portions 3814 and 3816 are each fed through respective first and second receiving portions 3818 and 3820. A spacing between the bight portions 3806 and 3810 defines the passage formed at the bottom of the stomach and affects the pressure applied to the internal organ, whereas a spacing between the elongated portions 3808 and 3812 affects the pressure applied to the stomach by the partition-forming section of the clamp 3800. The spacing between the first and second bight portions 3806 and 3810 may be independently controlled primarily by adjusting the length of the first fastening portion 3814 fed through the first receiving portion 3818. Similarly, the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 3808 and 3812 may be independently controlled primarily by adjusting the length of the second fastening portion 3816 fed through the second receiving portion 3820. Once the desired spacing is achieved, the clamp 3800 is closed, latched or otherwise secured by engaging the first and second fastening portions 3814 and 3816 with the outer surface of the second elongated member 3804 using the retention features 3822, 3824, 3826 and 3828. The clamp 3800 may be adjusted or uninstalled by reversing the installation procedure. Additionally, in some embodiments, installation, removal, and/or adjustment of the clamp 3800 may be performed using standard surgical tools (e.g., forceps, clamps, scissors, etc.).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 38, 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c), retention features 3822 and 3828 comprise retention loops, and retention features 3824 and 3826 comprise raised members. The first fastening portion 3814 is fed through the first receiving portion 3818 and under the retaining loop 3822. The first fastening portion 3814 includes one or more openings 3830 operable to receive the raised member 3824. Once the first fastening portion 3814 is fed through the retaining loop 3822, it is secured via a friction fit using the raised member 3824 and one of the openings 3830. Similarly, the second fastening portion 3816 is fed through the second receiving portion 3820 and under the retaining loop 3828. The second fastening portion 3816 includes one or more openings 3832 operable to receive the raised member 3826. Once the second fastening portion 3816 is fed through the retaining loop 3828, it is secured via a friction fit using the raised member 3826 and one of the openings 3832. In some embodiments, the first and second fastening portions 3814 and 3816 may be further secured by suturing the fastening portions 3814 and 3816 to the second elongated member 3804 using suturing holes (not shown) formed within the second substrate member and polymer overmolding.

As briefly discussed above, the spacings at the passage-forming and partition-forming sections of the clamp may be adjusted independent of each other. Thus, the two-piece surgical clamp 3800 permits customized installation and adjustment of the surgical clamp 3800 by permitting one end of the clamp (i.e., the passage-forming section or the partition-forming section) to be adjusted without having to adjust the other end. This allows a surgeon or other medical personnel to control the clamping pressure at each end of the device regardless of differences in thickness of the stomach from one end of the clamp 3800 to the other.

FIG. 40 illustrates another example embodiment of a two-piece surgical clamp 4000. The two-piece clamp 4000 includes first and second substrate members overmolded in a polymer material to form a first elongated member 4002 and a separate, second elongated member 4004. The first elongated member 4002 includes a first bight portion 4006 located towards a proximal end of the clamp 4000, and a first elongated portion 4008 located towards a distal end of the clamp 4000. The second elongated member 4004 includes a second bight portion 4010 located towards the proximal end of the clamp 4000 and a second elongated portion 4012 located towards the distal end of the clamp 4000. When the clamp is installed, the first and second bight portions 4006 and 4010 comprise a passage-forming section at the proximal end of the clamp 4000, and the first and second elongated portions 4008 and 4012 comprise a partition-forming section at the distal end of the clamp 4000. The spacing between the bight portions 4006 and 4010 defines the passage formed at the bottom of the stomach and affects the pressure applied to the internal organ, whereas the spacing between the elongated portions 4008 and 4012 affects the pressure applied to the stomach by the partition-forming section of the clamp 4000.

The first elongated member 4002 includes first and second fastening portions 4014 and 4016 formed from the polymer overmold at opposite ends of the first elongated member 4002. The second elongated member 4004 includes first and second receiving portions 4018 and 4020 formed from the polymer overmold at opposite ends of the second elongated member 4004. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 40 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 38, 39(a), 39(b) and 39(c), except that the retention feature of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 40 is embodied as a ratchet-type feature, wherein each of the first and second fastening portions 4014 and 4016 each include a plurality of “teeth” 4022 designed to engage the respective receiving portions 4018 and 4020 of the second elongated member 4004.

When installing the clamp 4000, the first and second elongated members 4002 and 4004 are inserted into the abdominal cavity (for example, using a trocar) and positioned on opposite sides of the stomach. The first and second fastening portions 4014 and 4016 are then fed through respective first and second receiving portions 4018 and 4020. The teeth 4022 on each of the fastening portions 4014 and 4016 are designed to flex to permit the feeding of respective fastening portion 4014 or 4016 through the respective receiving portion 4018 or 4020, and to engage the respective receiving portion 4018 or 4020 to retain the second elongated member 4004, thereby securing the clamp 4000 in a closed position. In some embodiments, the first and second elongated members 4002 and 4004 may be further secured by suturing the first and second elongated members 4002 and 4004 to the stomach using suturing holes (not shown) formed within the elongated members.

The spacing between the first and second bight portions 4006 and 4010 may be independently controlled primarily by adjusting the length of the first fastening portion 4014 fed through the first receiving portion 4018. Similarly, the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 4008 and 4012 may be independently controlled primarily by adjusting the length of the second fastening portion 4016 fed through the second receiving portion 4020. The clamp 4000 may be readjusted or uninstalled by disengaging the teeth 4022 of the fastening portions 4014 and 4016 from the respective receiving portions 4018 and 4020, and adjusting or removing the fastening portions 4014 and 4016 from the receiving portions 4018 and 4020. In some embodiments, once the clamp 4000 is installed, excess length of the first and second fastening portions 4014 and 4016 may be removed, for example, using scissors or other cutting instruments. In some embodiments, installation, removal, and/or adjustment of the clamp 4000 may be performed using standard surgical tools (e.g., forceps, clamps, scissors, etc.).

Like the clamp 3800 of FIG. 38, the two-piece clamp 4000 of FIG. 40 allows for independent adjustment of the spacings at the passage-forming and partition-forming sections of the clamp 4000. Thus, the two-piece surgical clamp 4000 permits customized installation and adjustment of the surgical clamp 4000 by permitting one end of the clamp (i.e., the passage-forming section or the partition-forming section) to be adjusted without having to adjust the other end. This allows a surgeon or other medical personnel to control the clamping pressure at each end of the device regardless of differences in thickness of the stomach from one end of the clamp 4000 to the other.

Embodiments of the polymer overmolded two-piece surgical clamp may be installed as described above with respect to the flow-chart illustrated in FIG. 36. Additionally, the polymer overmolding of the two-piece surgical clamp reduces or prevents damage to the internal organ that would prevent or complicate reversal of the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the thickness or surface contour of the elongated portions of the surgical clamp may be provided to align with the particular organ or body being clamped so as to provide a desired pressure or force at each location of the organ or body being clamped. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the first and second elongated members may be formed entirely from the polymer or elastomer material or resign and do not include an underlying substrate member.

It should be understood that one or more of the various fastening portions and retention features of the two-piece overmolded surgical clamp, such as the ratchet-like feature of the clamp 4000, the raised members and retention loops of the clamp 3800, or various combinations thereof may, in some embodiments, be incorporated in the one-piece overmolded surgical clamp. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more of the engagement features of the one-piece overmolded surgical clamp may be incorporated in the two-piece overmolded surgical clamp. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the one-piece surgical clamp may be a single, integrated unit or, in other embodiments, may be a modular unit formed of multiple pieces or parts combined to form the one-piece surgical (bariatric) clamp. It should also be appreciated that, in some embodiments, each of the pieces comprising the two-piece surgical clamp may include a single, integrated piece or, in other embodiments, may be a modular piece formed of multiple parts combined to form a piece of the two-piece surgical (bariatric) clamp.

FIGS. 41-81 and the accompanying description disclose various embodiments of a bariatric clamp (or surgical clamp) overmolded in a polymer material or are otherwise provided in support of such disclosure. The bariatric clamp is, in one implementation, a laparoscopically implanted device which, when closed and latched or secured, partitions a patient's stomach into two sections, such as two vertical sections or other divisions. The clamp may be installed using standard surgical tools (e.g., clamps, scissors, etc.) as further described below. When the clamp is installed, in one installation, the lesser curvature segment of the stomach forms the Magenstrasse, and the greater curvature segment, including the fundus, is generally excluded from nutritional contact. In one implementation, the clamp includes, at a proximal end, an aperture with an enlarged radius (generally referred to as the bight portion or passage-forming section), by which gastric juices created by the fundus and the body can empty into the atrum. By excluding the fundus, the clamp may alter or reduce hormones such as, for example, ghrelin, leading to the patient's loss of hunger. Additionally, the clamp acts as a restrictive procedure by reducing the size of the Magenstrasse by creating a small lumen for a vertical passageway of the nutrients along the lesser curvature.

FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) illustrate various views of an embodiment of an overmolded bariatric clamp 4100. The clamp 4100 includes first and second substrate members 4101 and 4103 (shown dashed in FIGS. 41(a) and 41(e) and similar to those shown in FIGS. 30(a), 30(b), 31(a) and 31(b)) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 4102, a second elongated portion 4104, a bight portion 4106, a fastener portion 4108, and an engagement portion 4114. As discussed above, the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 serve as a partition-forming section of the bariatric clamp 4100. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 41(a) and 10, when the clamp 4100 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 4106 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 4100. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

As shown in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e), the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 are joined by the bight portion 4106, which is disposed generally at the proximal end of the clamp 4100. The bight portion 4106 includes a flexible hinge 4118 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The flexible hinge 4118 allows the clamp 4100 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position illustrated in FIGS. 41(b) and 41(c), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position as shown in FIG. 41(e). It should be appreciated that the flexible hinge 4118 allows the clamp 4100 to flex, twist, contort, expand, stretch, or flex in virtually any desired angle or position. For example, referring briefly to FIGS. 50(a)-50(d), the clamp 4100 is shown in a closed position in FIG. 50(a), opened such that an angle α at the bight portion is less than 90° in FIG. 50(b), opened such that the angle α at the bight portion is approximately 180° in FIG. 50(c), and opened such that the angle α at the bight portion is greater than 180° in FIG. 50(d).

Referring briefly to FIGS. 51(a)-51(c), the clamp 4100 is shown in various contorted positions. As shown in FIGS. 51(a)-51(c), the flexible hinge 4118 allows the clamp 4100 to twist, bend, and flex in virtually any desired angle or direction such that the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 may be displaced from each other at an angle (for example, angle α) when viewing the clamp 4100 from an overview position, such as that provided in FIG. 51(a). In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 4118 is stretchable and may twist to provide the first elongated member at a desired position in any of three orthogonal planes relative to the second elongated member. In some embodiments, the flexibility provided by the hinge 4118 may be beneficial when positioning the first and second elongated portions on the stomach during installation. For example, the flexible hinge 4118 allows the clamp 4100 to be installed, in one embodiment, into a smaller opening, such as an opening with a trocar, one elongated member at a time and then to properly install and position the bariatric clamp 4100 on the stomach in the limited space of the abdominal cavity.

When the clamp 4100 is installed, the flexible hinge 4118 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 4106 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. For example, FIG. 52(a) illustrates the clamp 4100 in a closed position, wherein the flexible hinge 4118 is in a compressed, non-expanded position or resting state, and FIG. 52(b) illustrates the clamp 4100 in the closed position wherein the flexible hinge 4118 is stretched or expanded in a tensioned state. As previously mentioned, such stretching or expanding may accommodate irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The stretching or expanding of the flexible hinge 4118 also allows the clamp 4100 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 4100, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 4118 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 4100, such as the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104.

When installing the bariatric clamp 4100, the clamp 4100 is placed into position as explained in greater detail below, and the fastener portion 4108 and engagement portion 4114 are used to retain the clamp 4100 in a substantially closed position. FIGS. 41(b) and 41(c) illustrate the clamp 4100 in the substantially closed position. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e), the fastener portion 4108 comprises a strap formed from the overmolded polymer, or other material, and located towards the distal end of the second elongated portion 4104. Because the fastener portion 4108 is formed from the overmolded polymer in some embodiments, it is stretchable and capable of providing appropriate tension to partition the stomach when installed. Also, as shown in FIGS. 53(a)-53(e), the fastener portion 4108 is capable of stretching so that one of the primary openings 4110 may receive the engagement portion 4114. The fastener portion 4108 may also include a secondary opening 4112 used for adjusting or manipulating the fastener portion 4108, the second elongated portion 4104 and/or the clamp 4100. For example, a surgeon may use a tool (not shown) to engage the secondary opening 4112 to position the strap such that the engagement portion 4114 engages one of the primary openings 4110. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) and 53(a)-53(e), the engagement portion 4114 comprises a protrusion, such as a hook or tab, for engaging openings of the fastener portion 4108.

In some embodiments, the clamp 4100 may be adjusted by disengaging the engagement portion 4114 from one of the primary openings 4110, and engaging the engagement portion 4114 with another one of the primary openings 4110 to either increase or decrease the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104. In some embodiments, the fastener portion 4108 may be secured to the first elongated portion 4102 by suturing the fastener portion 4108 to the polymer overmolding of the first elongated portion 4102.

FIGS. 42(a), 42(b), 43(a) and 43(b) illustrate embodiments of an overmolded bariatric clamp similar to that shown in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) and described above, except that the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 42(a), 42(b), 43(a) and 43(b) have adjustable lengths. The adjustable length of the bariatric clamp allows for the clamp to be further customized to fit a patient's stomach during installation, or even after the clamp has been installed. For example, when installing the bariatric clamp, a surgeon is able to adjust the clamp as needed during installation to fit the patient's stomach. Additionally, if a bariatric clamp having an adjustable length is installed in a patient, and the length of the clamp is subsequently determined to be improper, the surgeon is able to adjust the length of the clamp to better fit the patient's stomach without having to remove the existing clamp or having to install a new clamp. Accordingly, a bariatric clamp having an adjustable length may prevent unnecessary surgical operations and/or reduce the amount of time required to install or adjust the bariatric clamp.

One embodiment of a bariatric clamp 4200 having an adjustable length is illustrated in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b). The clamp 4200 includes first and second adjustable substrate members 4201 and 4203 (shown dashed) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 4202, a second elongated portion 4204, a bight portion 4206, a fastener portion 4208, and an engagement portion 4214. The first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204 serve as a partition-forming section of the bariatric clamp 4200. Referring briefly to FIGS. 42(a), 42(b) and 10, when the clamp 4200 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 4206 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 4200. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

FIG. 42(a) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4200 in a retracted position wherein the length of the first elongated portion 4202 and the length of the second elongated portion 4204 are decreased to shorten the overall length of the clamp 4200. FIG. 42(b) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4200 in an extended position wherein the first elongated portion 4202 and the second elongated portion 4204 are extended to increase the overall length of the clamp 4200. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b), the adjustable length is provided, at least in part, by the first and second adjustable substrate members 4201 and 4203 comprising the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204, respectively, as well as portions of the bight portion 4206. As discussed herein, the adjustable substrate members 4201 and 4203 are each referred to as a single member, but it should be appreciated that they may each be comprised of two or more pieces as shown, for example, in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b). It should also be appreciated that, in the embodiments discussed herein, the overmolded material is capable of stretching, expanding, and/or contracting to accommodate the extended and retracted lengths of the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204.

In some embodiments, the first adjustable substrate member 4201 may comprise an external member 4201A and an internal member 4201B, wherein the first adjustable substrate member 4201 is capable of at least partially disposing, or housing, the internal member 4201B within the external member 4201A. For example, the external member 4201A may be formed so that it has an opening 4205, or hollow portion, operable to receive the internal member 4201B. In this embodiment, the length of the first elongated portion 4202 may be adjusted by extending or retracting the internal member 4201B from or into the external member 4201A. Therefore, a user can extend the internal member 4201B from the external member 4201A as shown in FIG. 42(b) to increase the length of the first elongated portion 4202. Conversely, the user can retract, or insert, the internal member 4201B into the external member 4201A as shown in FIG. 42(a) to decrease the length of the first elongated portion 4202. In some embodiments, the external member 4201A, internal member 4201B, or both may include one or more detents (not shown) or other means for retaining a particular length of the first elongated portion 4202. Additionally (or alternatively), the length of the first elongated portion 4202 may be retained by suturing the first elongated portion 4202 to a portion of the stomach, or to another device or tissue, to prevent unintentionally adjusting the length of the first elongated portion 4202. In some embodiments, the length of the first elongated portion 4202 may be further increased by fully extending or removing the internal member 4201B from the external member 4201A. In other embodiments, the first adjustable substrate member may comprise one or more telescopic substrate members capable of telescopically expanding or retracting to adjust a length of the first elongated portion 4202 in a manner similar to that discussed above.

Similarly, in some embodiments, the second adjustable substrate member 4203 may comprise an external member 4203A and an internal member 4203B, wherein the second adjustable substrate member 4203 is capable of at least partially disposing, or housing, the internal member 4203B within the external member 4203A. For example, the external member 4203A may be formed so that it has an opening 4207, or hollow portion, operable to receive the internal member 4203B. In this embodiment, the length of the second elongated portion 4204 may be adjusted by extending or retracting the internal member 4203B from or into the external member 4203A. Therefore, a user can extend the internal member 4203B from the external member 4203A as shown in FIG. 42(b) to increase the length of the second elongated portion 4204. Conversely, the user can retract, or insert, the internal member 4203B into the external member 4203A as shown in FIG. 42(a) to decrease the length of the second elongated portion 4204. In some embodiments, the external member 4203A, internal member 4203B, or both may include one or more detents (not shown) or other means for retaining a particular length of the second elongated portion 4204. Additionally (or alternatively), the length of the second elongated portion 4204 may be retained by suturing the second elongated portion 4204 to a portion of the stomach, or to another device or tissue, to prevent unintentionally adjusting the length of the second elongated portion 4204. In some embodiments, the length of the second elongated portion 4204 may be further increased by fully extending or removing the internal member 4203B from the external member 4203A. In other embodiments, the second adjustable substrate member may comprise one or more telescopic substrate members capable of telescopically expanding or retracting to adjust a length of the second elongated portion 4204 in a manner similar to that discussed above.

As shown in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b), the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204 are joined by the bight portion 4206 at the proximal end of the clamp 4200. The bight portion 4206 includes a flexible hinge 4218 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The flexible hinge 4218 allows the clamp 4200 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position (similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 41(b) and 41(c)), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position (similar to that shown in FIG. 41(e)). When the clamp 4200 is installed, the flexible hinge 4218 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 4206 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The flexible hinge 4218 also allows the clamp 4200 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 4200, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 4218 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 4200, such as the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204.

When installing the bariatric clamp 4200, the clamp 4200 is placed into position as explained in greater detail below, and the fastener portion 4208 and engagement portion 4214 are used to retain the clamp 4200 in a substantially closed position. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b), the fastener portion 4208 comprises a strap formed from the overmolded polymer, or other material, and located towards the distal end of the second elongated portion 4204. The strap may include one or more primary openings 4210 for receiving the engagement portion 4214, and a secondary opening 4212 used for adjusting or manipulating the fastener portion 4208, the second elongated portion 4204 and/or the clamp 4200. For example, a surgeon may use a tool (not shown) to engage the secondary opening 4212 to position the strap such that the engagement portion 4214 engages one of the primary openings 4210. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 42(a) and 42(b), the engagement portion 4214 comprises a protrusion, such as a hook or tab, for engaging openings of the fastener portion 4208.

In some embodiments, the clamp 4200 may be adjusted by disengaging the engagement portion 4214 from one of the primary openings 4210, and engaging the engagement portion 4214 with another one of the primary openings 4210 to either increase or decrease the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 4202 and 4204. In some embodiments, this adjustment of the clamp 4200 may also include adjusting the length of the clamp 4200 in accordance with the foregoing description. In some embodiments, the fastener portion 4208 may be secured to the first elongated portion 4202 by suturing the fastener portion 4208 to the polymer overmolding of the first elongated portion 4202.

Another embodiment of a bariatric clamp 4300 having an adjustable length is illustrated in FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b). The clamp 4300 includes first and second substrate members 4301 and 4303 (shown dashed) and first and second bight substrate members 4305 and 4307 (shown dashed) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 4302, a second elongated portion 4304, a bight portion 4306, a fastener portion 4308, and an engagement portion 4314. The first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 serve as a partition-forming section of the bariatric clamp 4300. Referring briefly to FIGS. 43(a), 43(b) and 10, when the clamp 4300 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 4306 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 4300. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

FIG. 43(a) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4300 in a retracted position wherein the length of the first elongated portion 4302 and the length of the second elongated portion 4304 are decreased to shorten the overall length of the clamp 4300. FIG. 43(b) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4300 in an extended position wherein the first elongated portion 4302 and the second elongated portion 4304 are extended to increase the overall length of the clamp 4300. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b), the adjustable length is provided, at least in part, by a first adjustable portion 4302A formed from the polymer overmold comprising the first elongated portion 4302 and a second adjustable portion 4304A formed from the polymer overmold comprising the second elongated portion 4304. The first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A are shown in a retracted position in FIG. 43(a), and in an extended position in FIG. 43(b). It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A may be comprised of a material different from the polymer overmolding.

In some embodiments, the first adjustable portion 4302A is capable of extending (e.g., stretching, expanding, etc.) to increase the length of the first elongated portion 4302 and retracting (e.g., contracting) to decrease the length of the first elongated portion 4302. Therefore, a user may adjust the length of the first elongated portion 4302 by adjusting the position or placement of the first elongated portion 4302, while the first adjustable portion 4302A extends or retracts accordingly to account for corresponding adjustments of the length of the first elongated portion 4302. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second adjustable portion 4304A is capable of extending (e.g., stretching, expanding, etc.) to increase the length of the second elongated portion 4304 and retracting (e.g., contracting) to decrease the length of the second elongated portion 4304. Therefore, a user may adjust the length of the second elongated portion 4304 by adjusting the position or placement of the second elongated portion 4304, while the second adjustable portion 4304A extends or retracts accordingly to account for corresponding adjustments of the length of the second elongated portion 4304.

As discussed herein, the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A are capable of stretching, expanding, and/or contracting to accommodate the extended and retracted lengths of the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. In some embodiments, the length of the first and/or second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 may be retained by suturing the first and/or second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 to a portion of the stomach, or to another device or tissue, to prevent unintentionally adjusting the length of the first and/or second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. Although FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b) illustrate the first adjustable portion 4302A disposed at a location adjacent the first bight substrate member 4305 and the first substrate member 4301, the first adjustable portion 4302A may be disposed at other locations along the length of the first elongated portion 4302. Similarly, although FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b) illustrate the second adjustable portion 4304A disposed at a location adjacent the second bight substrate member 4307 and the second substrate member 4303, the second adjustable portion 4304A may be disposed at other locations along the length of the second elongated portion 4304.

In some embodiments, the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A are capable of bending, flexing or hinging such that the bight portion 4306 is capable of being disposed at a desired angle relative to the length of the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. For example, FIG. 54(a) illustrates an embodiment wherein the clamp 4300 is installed on a stomach 5400 and the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A are hinged such that the bight portion 4306 is angled in a first direction relative to the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. In another example embodiment, FIG. 54(b) illustrates the clamp 4300 installed on the stomach 5400 and the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A are hinged such that the bight portion 4306 is angled in a second direction relative to the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. In some embodiments, the hinging portion of the clamp 4300 as described herein may be provided by hinges or other features incorporated in the clamp 4300 at locations where the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 join the bight portion 4306. In some embodiments, the first and second adjustable portions 4302A and 4304A may maintain the bight portion 4306 at a fixed angle.

It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the clamp may be positioned at various locations along the stomach as desired. For example, as shown in FIG. 54(a), the top portion of the clamp may be positioned at a location at the top of the stomach adjacent the esophagus and the bottom portion of the clamp may be positioned at a location at the bottom of the stomach horizontally off-set relative to the location at which the top portion of the clamp is positioned. This may be achieved by providing a clamp that can bend, flex, adjust, hinge, or curve to achieve the desired positioning (as is the case in FIG. 54(a)), or it may be achieved by positioning the clamp so that it is angled with respect to a vertical axis extending from the bottom of the stomach towards the top of the stomach. In some embodiments, such positioning may be useful for ensuring that the vertical food pouch or the portion of the stomach beneath the esophagus has a substantially uniform size from the top of the stomach towards the bottom portion of the stomach.

As shown in FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b), the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304 are joined by the bight portion 4306 at the proximal end of the clamp 4300. The bight portion 4306 includes a first bight substrate member 4305, second bight substrate member 4307, and a flexible hinge 4318 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The first and second bight substrate members 4305 and 4307 are similar (in both functionality and composition) to the first and second substrate members 4301 and 4303 (and other substrate members disclosed herein), and may be formed of various biocompatible materials such as titanium or biocompatible polymer resins such as polyether ketone ketone (PEKK) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The flexible hinge 4318 allows the clamp 4300 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position (similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 41(b) and 41(c)), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position (similar to that shown in FIG. 41(e)). When the clamp 4300 is installed, the first and second bight substrate members 4305 and 4307 provide structural support to the passage-forming section of the clamp 4300. Additionally, the flexible hinge 4318 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 4306 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The flexible hinge 4318 also allows the clamp 4300 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 4300, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 4318 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 4300, such as the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304.

When installing the surgical clamp 4300, the clamp 4300 is placed into position as explained in greater detail below, and the fastener portion 4308 and engagement portion 4314 are used to retain the clamp 4300 in a substantially closed position. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b), the fastener portion 4308 comprises a strap formed from the overmolded polymer, or other material, and located towards the distal end of the second elongated portion 4304. The strap may include one or more primary openings 4310 for receiving the engagement portion 4314, and a secondary opening 4312 used for adjusting or manipulating the fastener portion 4308, the second elongated portion 4304 and/or the clamp 4300. For example, a surgeon may use a tool (not shown) to engage the secondary opening 4312 to position the strap such that the engagement portion 4314 engages one of the primary openings 4310. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 43(a) and 43(b), the engagement portion 4314 comprises a protrusion, such as a hook or tab, for engaging openings of the fastener portion 4308.

In some embodiments, the clamp 4300 may be adjusted by disengaging the engagement portion 4314 from one of the primary openings 4310, and engaging the engagement portion 4314 with another one of the primary openings 4310 to either increase or decrease the spacing between the first and second elongated portions 4302 and 4304. In some embodiments, this adjustment of the clamp 4300 may also include adjusting the length of the clamp 4300 in accordance with the foregoing description. In some embodiments, the fastener portion 4308 may be secured to the first elongated portion 4302 by suturing the fastener portion 4308 to the polymer overmolding of the first elongated portion 4302.

FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b) illustrate yet another embodiment of a bariatric clamp 4400 having an adjustable length. The bariatric clamp 4400 varies from the bariatric clamps discussed above with respect to FIGS. 41(a)-41(e), 42(a), 42(b), 43(a) and 43(b) in that the bariatric clamp 4400 in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b) is comprised of multiple members, rather than a continuous design. However, it should be appreciated that the clamp 4400 operates in a manner similar to those discussed above.

The bariatric clamp 4400 includes a first substrate member 4401, second substrate member 4403, first bight substrate member 4405 and second bight substrate member 4407 (each shown dashed). The first substrate member 4401 is overmolded in a polymer material to form a first elongated member 4402 having an engagement portion 4414 at a distal end and a first receiving portion 4416 towards a proximal end of the first elongated member 4402. The second substrate member 4403 is overmolded in a polymer material to form a second elongated member 4404 having a fastener portion 4408 at a distal end and a second receiving portion 4417 at a proximal end of the second elongated member 4404. The first and second bight substrate members 4405 and 4407 are overmolded in a polymer material to form a bight member 4406 having a flexible hinge 4418, first retention feature 4420 and second retention feature 4422. When the clamp 4400 is assembled, the first retention feature 4420 is received by the first receiving portion 4416 to couple the bight member 4406 to the first elongated member 4402, and the second retention feature 4422 is received by the second receiving portion 4417 to couple the bight member 4406 to the second elongated member 4404. The bight member 4406 comprises a passage-forming section disposed towards a proximal end of the clamp 4400, and the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404 comprise a partition-forming section disposed towards a distal end of the clamp 4400.

Referring briefly to FIGS. 44(a), 44(b) and 10, when the clamp 4400 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and excluded section 502. The bight member 4406 comprises the passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 4400 and allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the adjustable length is provided, at least in part, by the positions of the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422 with respect to the receiving portions 4416 and 4417 of the first and second elongated members, respectively. For example, FIG. 44(a) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4400 in a retracted position wherein the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422 are positioned so that the overall length of the clamp 4400 is decreased. FIG. 44(b) illustrates the adjustable bariatric clamp 4400 in an extended position wherein the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422 are positioned so that the overall length of the clamp 4400 is increased.

In some embodiments such as, for example, that illustrated in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the first retention feature 4420 and the second retention feature 4422 each comprise a ratchet feature having a plurality of teeth 4424 formed from the polymer overmold material, and the receiving portions 4416 and 4417 each comprise a loop-type shape formed from the polymer overmold material. The teeth 4424 are capable of flexing to fit within the opening of the loop when the retention feature 4420/4422 is inserted into the receiving portion 4416/4417. This allows the retention feature 4420/4422 to slide through the opening of the receiving portion 4416/4417 to couple the bight member 4406 to the respective first or second elongated member 4402 or 4404. Once a tooth 4424 of the retention feature 4422/4424 has passed through the receiving portion 4416/4417, the tooth 4424 is capable of engaging the receiving portion 4416/4417 to prevent the retention feature 4422/4424 from unintentionally disengaging from the receiving portion 4416/4417. However, if a user wishes to remove at least a portion of the retention feature 4420/4422 from the receiving portion 4416/4417 (for example, to lengthen or disassemble the clamp 4400), the user may flex, or stretch, the receiving portion 4416/4417 and/or compress the tooth 4424 to withdraw the retention feature 4420/4422 from the respective receiving portion 4416/4417.

As mentioned above, the adjustable length of the clamp 4400 is provided, at least in part, by the positions of the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422 with respect to the receiving portions 4416 and 4417 of the first and second elongated members, respectively. To decrease the length of the clamp 4400, the user may insert the first and/or second retention features 4420 and 4422 into the respective receiving portions 4416 and 4417 as discussed above. If a user wishes to further decrease the length of the clamp 4400, the user can further insert the first and/or second retention features 4420 and 4422 into the respective receiving portions 4416 and 4417 so that additional teeth 4424 have passed through the receiving portions 4416 and 4417. For example, FIG. 44(a) shows the clamp 4400 in its most retracted, or shortest, position. In this embodiment, all teeth 4424 of the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422 have passed through their respective receiving portions 4416 and 4417. To increase the length of the clamp 4400, the user may remove a portion of the first and/or second retention features 4420 and 4422 from their respective receiving portions 4416 and 4417 as discussed above. If the user wishes to further increase the length of the clamp 4400, the user can further remove a portion of the first and/or second retention features 4420 and 4422 from the respective receiving portions 4416 and 4417 so that additional teeth 4424 have passed back through the receiving portions 4416 and 4417. For example, FIG. 44(b) illustrates the clamp 4400 in its most extended, or longest, assembled position. In this embodiment, all teeth 4424 have been withdrawn from the receiving portions 4416 and 4417 except for the last tooth 4424 of each retention feature 4420 and 4422 that maintains the coupling between the bight member 4406 and the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404.

As shown in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404 are coupled to the bight member 4406 towards the proximal end of the clamp 4400. As discussed above, the bight member 4406 includes the first and second bight substrate members 4405 and 4407, the first and second retention features 4420 and 4422, and a flexible hinge 4418 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The first and second bight substrate members 4405 and 4407 are similar (in both functionality and composition) to the first and second substrate members 4401 and 4403 (and other bight substrate members disclosed herein), and may be formed of various biocompatible materials such as titanium or biocompatible polymer resins such as polyether ketone ketone (PEKK) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The flexible hinge 4418 allows the assembled clamp 4400 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position (similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 41(b) and 41(c)), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position (similar to that shown in FIG. 41(e)). When the clamp 4400 is installed, the first and second bight substrate members 4405 and 4407 provide structural support to the passage-forming section of the clamp 4400. Additionally, the flexible hinge 4418 permits expansion and movement of the bight member 4406 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The flexible hinge 4418 also allows the clamp 4400 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 4400, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 4418 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 4400, such as the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404.

When installing the assembled bariatric clamp 4400, the clamp 4400 is placed into position as explained in greater detail below, and the fastener portion 4408 and engagement portion 4414 are used to retain the clamp 4400 in a substantially closed position. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the fastener portion 4408 comprises a strap formed from the overmolded polymer, or other material, and located towards the distal end of the second elongated member 4404. The strap may include one or more primary openings 4410 for receiving the engagement portion 4414, and a secondary opening 4412 used for adjusting or manipulating the fastener portion 4408, the second elongated member 4404 and/or the clamp 4400. For example, a surgeon may use a tool (not shown) to engage the secondary opening 4412 to position the strap such that the engagement portion 4414 engages one of the primary openings 4410. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the engagement portion 4414 comprises a protrusion, such as a hook or tab, for engaging openings of the fastener portion 4408.

In some embodiments, the assembled clamp 4400 may be adjusted by disengaging the engagement portion 4414 from one of the primary openings 4410, and engaging the engagement portion 4414 with another one of the primary openings 4410 to either increase or decrease the spacing between the first and second elongated members 4402 and 4404. In some embodiments, this adjustment of the clamp 4400 may also include adjusting the length of the clamp 4400 in accordance with the foregoing description. In some embodiments, the fastener portion 4408 may be secured to the first elongated member 4402 by suturing the fastener portion 4408 to the polymer overmolding of the first elongated member 4402.

FIG. 45 illustrates a flow diagram 4500 illustrating a method for installing a bariatric clamp. For the sake of clarity, the method illustrated in FIG. 45 is generally discussed with reference to the bariatric clamp 4100 illustrated in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) and described above, unless otherwise specified. However, it should be appreciated that the disclosed method for installing a bariatric clamp may be applicable to various embodiments of a bariatric clamp including, but not limited to, any of the embodiments discussed herein, and any of the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 41-44. Additionally, when describing the method presented in FIG. 45 (and the method presented in FIG. 47), it should be understood that references to the “first elongated portion” and “second elongated portion” are not limited to the exact embodiments of a “first elongated portion” and “second elongated portion” as illustrated in any of the figures described above. For example, as used in the context of the methods discussed with reference to FIGS. 45 and 47, the “first elongated portion” of FIG. 41 may refer to a first half of the bariatric clamp 4100 including the first elongated portion 4102, the engagement portion 4114, and the section of the bight portion 4106 located on the same side of the bariatric clamp 4100. Similarly, the “second elongated portion” may refer to a second half of the bariatric clamp 4100 including the second elongated portion 4104, the fastener portion 4108, and the section of the bight portion 4106 located on the same side of the bariatric clamp 4100. It should also be noted that, in some embodiments, the first elongated portion may include the fastener portion, whereas the second elongated portion includes the engagement portion.

The method of FIG. 45 first discloses, at block 4502, creating an opening in the abdominal cavity of a patient to allow access to the patient's stomach. In some embodiments, this may include inserting one or more trocars into the patient's abdomen, wherein the trocars provide an opening through which a surgeon may insert various devices and equipment such as, for example, surgical tools, a camera and the bariatric clamp 4100. The trocars may comprise various features known in the art. For example, one or more of the trocars may, in some embodiments, include a cutting portion to assist the surgeon (or other personnel) with penetrating the abdominal cavity (or other tissue) of the patient. In some embodiments, other tools (e.g., scissors, needles, dilators, etc.) may be used to create the opening in the abdominal cavity so that the trocar can be inserted into the abdominal cavity. In some embodiments, the abdominal cavity may be inflated by forcing air (e.g., CO2) into the abdominal cavity. In such embodiments, a hose or tube may be inserted into or connected to one or more of the trocars, and the trocars may include a seal to prevent the air from escaping the abdominal cavity through the trocars. In some embodiments, a camera or endoscope may be placed into the abdominal cavity to allow a surgeon or other personnel to view installation, removal or adjustment of the bariatric clamp 4100. In such embodiments, the endoscope may be placed into the abdominal cavity through a trocar inserted, for example, at the navel of the patient.

At block 4504, the method discloses removing tissue connected to the stomach, particularly at locations where the bariatric clamp 4100 is to be positioned adjacent the stomach. Tissue attached to or adhered to the exterior surface of the stomach is removed to create a tunnel, path or passageway on the exterior surface of the stomach for the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 of the bariatric clamp 4100 to reside on the stomach, such as in a vertical orientation, or primarily vertical orientation, on the anterior and posterior sides of the exterior surfaces of the stomach, to partition the stomach, as described herein, and while providing a passage-forming section to allow some flow or exchange of gastric fluids between the first and second regions. When the bariatric clamp 4100 is in a closed position, some gastric juices are believed likely to be exchanged across both the first and second regions, and primarily through the passage forming section of the bariatric clamp 4100.

In some embodiments, the removal of the tissue may be accomplished by resecting the tissue using surgical equipment such as, for example, clamps, forceps, vacuum hoses, scalpels, an ultrasonic probe, or any combination thereof to create a passageway, tunnel or path for the bariatric clamp 4100 or any other surgical tools (e.g., alignment device, guide member, etc.) used in the installation process. Additionally, this step may include displacing tissue and/or organs (e.g., the liver) located towards a top, bottom, anterior and/or posterior side of the stomach to expose the stomach to provide easier access to the stomach. This may also include exposing one or more locations where the bariatric clamp 4100, or other surgical equipment or tools, can be positioned onto the stomach with little or no intervening tissue.

At block 4506, the method discloses positioning the bariatric clamp 4100 in a substantially expanded or opened position. Referring briefly to FIGS. 46 and 50(a)-50(d), the bariatric clamp 4100 of FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) is illustrated in various opened positions (FIG. 41(e) also illustrates the bariatric clamp 4100 in a substantially expanded or opened position). As shown in FIG. 46, the clamp 4100 is placed in an opened position such that the bariatric clamp 4100 is capable of fitting into the opening of the abdominal cavity of the patent in the opened position wherein the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 separately pass through the opening in the abdominal cavity. In some embodiments, this may include fitting the opened bariatric clamp 4100 through a trocar (e.g., a 12 mm trocar) while the bariatric clamp 4100 is in an opened or substantially expanded position. It should be appreciated that the fastener portion 4108 is comprised of the polymer overmolding, and is therefore capable of flexing, as shown in FIG. 46, to fit within the opening of the abdominal cavity. Similarly, the flexible hinge 4118 is also comprised of the polymer overmolding, and is also capable of flexing to allow the first and second elongated portions to contort or adjust while the bariatric clamp 4100 is inserted into the opening of the abdominal cavity. In some embodiments, positioning the bariatric clamp 4100 in the expanded position may include aligning the first and second elongated portions such that a length 11 of the first elongated portion 4102 is substantially collinear with a length 12 of the second elongated portion 4104. In some embodiments, positioning the clamp in the expanded position may include assembling the clamp, for example, if the embodiment of the clamp 4400 provided in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b) is implemented. However, in alternate embodiments, the clamp 4400 in FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b) may be assembled after being inserted into the abdominal cavity.

At block 4508 of FIG. 45, the bariatric clamp 4100 is inserted into the abdominal cavity in the substantially expanded or opened position discussed herein. FIG. 47 provides a flow diagram 4700 illustrating one embodiment of a method for inserting the bariatric clamp 4100 into the abdominal cavity in the opened position. The method illustrated in FIG. 47 implements an alignment device (e.g., Gold finger, clamp, forceps, etc.) to position a guide member (e.g., suture, string, thread, twine, wire, etc.), wherein the guide member is used to guide the bariatric clamp 4100 as it is inserted into the abdominal cavity and/or positioned adjacent the stomach. While describing the method of FIG. 47, reference is made to FIGS. 48(a) and 48(b), which illustrate various views of the patient's stomach 4800. FIG. 48(a) illustrates an overview perspective of a first side 4810, top 4815 and bottom 4817 of the patient's stomach 4800. FIG. 48(b) illustrates a profile view of the stomach 4800 as viewed along line A-A in FIG. 48(a). The profile view shows the first side 4810, top 4815 and bottom 4817 of the stomach 4800 and a second side 4820 of the stomach 4800. In some embodiments, the first side 4810 may be the posterior side of the stomach and the second side 4820 may be the anterior side of the stomach, however in other embodiments, the first side 4810 may be the anterior side of the stomach and the second side 4820 may be the posterior side of the stomach.

Referring briefly to FIGS. 49(a) and 49(b), an example embodiment of an alignment device, or tool 4900 is shown having an end member 4910 disposed at a distal end of the tool 4900, and a handle 4920 disposed at a proximal end of the tool 4900. The end member 4910 is disposed at the end of a shaft portion 4915 of the tool 4900 and, in some embodiments, includes an opening 4912 for receiving and/or retaining a guide member (e.g., suture). As explained in greater detail below, the tool 4900 may be used to assist with positioning the guide member through a tunnel or path created along a side of the stomach and around the top of the stomach. In some embodiments, the end member 4910 may be articulated in an upward direction with reference to the horizontal shaft portion 4915 as shown in FIG. 49(a), and may also be articulated to be positioned in-line with the shaft portion 4915 as shown in FIG. 49(b). Articulation of the end member 4910 may be controlled by actuating the handle 4920 as shown in FIGS. 49(a) and 49(b).

In the method of FIG. 47, the alignment device is used to position the guide member so that it may be used to guide the bariatric clamp 4100 into the abdominal cavity, and into position as further described below. At block 4702, a first end of the guide member is attached to a distal end of the alignment device (or the first end of the guide member is grasped using the distal end of the alignment device), and the alignment device is inserted into the abdominal cavity (e.g., through a trocar). At block 4704, the alignment device is positioned along the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800 by traversing the distal end of the alignment device along the first side 4810 of the stomach towards the top 4815 of the stomach 4800. Once positioned at the top 4815 of the stomach 4800 (e.g., at location 4805), the distal end of the alignment device (e.g., the end member 4910 of tool 4900) is positioned (e.g., articulated, extended, etc.) so that a portion of the guide member is accessible from the second side 4820 of the stomach 4800, while the a portion of the alignment device (e.g., the shaft portion 4915 of tool 4900) remains positioned along the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800. At block 4706, the guide member is then positioned on the second side 4820 of the stomach 4800 (for example, using a clamp or forceps), while the first end of the guide member remains attached to the distal end of the alignment device (e.g., the end member 4910 of tool 4900).

At block 4708, the alignment device is withdrawn from the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800 (and preferably withdrawn from the abdominal cavity) by traversing the first side 4810 of the stomach in a direction towards the bottom 4817 of the stomach 4800 such that a first portion 4825A of the guide member is positioned or aligned along the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800, while a second portion 4825B of the guide member is retained (for example, using a clamp or forceps) on the second side 4820 of the stomach 4800. FIGS. 48(a) and 48(b) illustrate the first portion of the guide member 4825A and the second portion of the guide member 4825B, in accordance with the present embodiment. In this embodiment, the first portion of the guide member is aligned such that the position of the first portion of the guide member is relatively consistent with the location at which an elongated portion 4102/4104 of the clamp 4100 will be positioned adjacent the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800.

At block 4710, the first end of the guide member is then disconnected from the alignment device and attached to one of the first or second elongated portions 4102 or 4104 of the bariatric clamp 4100. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by attaching the guide member through the secondary opening 4112 and/or around the fastener portion 4108 of the second elongated portion 4104 of the clamp 4100. In other embodiments, this may be accomplished by attaching the guide member to the engagement portion 4114 of the first elongated portion 4102. At block 4712, with the first end of the guide member attached to either the first elongated portion 4102 or the second elongated portion 4104, and the clamp 4100 positioned in the substantially expanded position, the second portion of the guide member 4825B is engaged to guide the bariatric clamp 4100 into the abdominal cavity. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by pulling on the second portion of the guide member with surgical tools (e.g., forceps, clamps, etc.) to extract the first portion of the guide member 4825A from the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800 while feeding the bariatric clamp 4100 into a trocar while the clamp 4100 remains in the substantially expanded position.

Referring again to FIG. 45, the first or second elongated portion 4102/4104 of the clamp 4100 attached to the guide member at block 4710 is then positioned adjacent the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800 at block 4510, while the clamp 4100 remains in an opened position. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by continuing to engage the second portion of the guide member 4825B until the respective first or second elongated portion 4102 or 4104 is positioned adjacent the first side 4810 of the stomach. At this time, the guide member may be disconnected from the first or second elongated portion 4102 or 4104 and removed from the abdominal cavity. Additionally, other surgical tools (e.g., clamps, forceps, scissors, etc.) may be used to position the first or second elongated portion 4102 or 4104 adjacent the first side 4810 of the stomach 4800.

The remaining elongated portion is then positioned adjacent the second side 4820 of the stomach 4800 at block 4512. The clamp 4100 should be positioned so that the bight portion 4106 of the clamp 4100 is abutting the bottom 4817 of the stomach 4800. In some embodiments, surgical tools may be used to engage the remaining elongated portion and to properly position the elongated portion adjacent the second side 4820 of the stomach 4800. Although the method is described in accordance with a preferred embodiment, it should be understood that, in some embodiments, the clamp 4100 may be installed in a sequence wherein blocks 4510 and 4512 are performed in reversed order.

At block 4514, the bariatric clamp 4100 is closed to partition the stomach in accordance with the disclosure provided above with respect to the various embodiments of the bariatric (or surgical) clamps. In some embodiments, this may include stretching the tissue of the stomach along the length of the clamp 4100 to eliminate folds in the stomach tissue. In some embodiments, closing the clamp 4100 may also include securing the clamp 4100 in the closed position. For example, closing and securing the bariatric clamp 4100 of FIG. 41(a) may include using a tool to engage the fastener portion 4108 (for example, at the secondary opening 4112) to position the fastener portion 4108 such that the engagement portion 4114 engages one of the primary openings 4110.

In some embodiments, closing the bariatric clamp 4100 may also include affixing the first elongated portion 4102 to the side of the stomach adjacent the first elongated portion 4102, and/or affixing the second elongated portion 4104 to the side of the stomach adjacent the second elongated portion 4104 to prevent unwanted migration or displacement of portions of the clamp 4100. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by suturing the first and second elongated portions 4102 and 4104 to their respective sides of the stomach. For example, the first elongated portion 4102 may be sutured to the first side of the stomach (assuming the clamp 4100 is installed such that the first side of the stomach is adjacent the first elongated portion 4102) by suturing through the overmolded portion of the first elongated portion 4102. Similarly, the second elongated portion 4104 may be sutured to the second side of the stomach (assuming the clamp 4100 is installed such that the second side of the stomach is adjacent the second elongated portion 4104) by suturing through the overmolded portion of the second elongated portion 4104.

An example of one such embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 55, which illustrates a clamp 5500, similar to the clamp 4100 discussed herein, having curved suturing needles 5502 embedded or encapsulated within the polymer overmolding of the bariatric clamp 5500 and used to anchor the first elongated portion 5508 and/or second elongated portion 5510 to the stomach once the clamp 5500 is properly installed and positioned. In some embodiments, the substrate members (e.g., first substrate member 5504) may be modified to accommodate the placement of the suturing needles 5502. For example, as shown in FIG. 55, the first substrate member 5504 and second substrate member 5512 include various recesses 5506 to accommodate placement of the suturing needles. In some embodiments, a clamp modified such as that shown in FIG. 55 may be inserted into the abdominal cavity of the patient having the curved suturing needles 5502 embedded or encapsulated within the polymer overmolding of the bariatric clamp and having sutures 5514 coupled to the curved suturing needles 5502. In such an embodiment, once the first and/or second elongated portions 5508 and/or 5510 are properly positioned, pressure may be applied to the needles 5502 or elongated portion of the clamp such that the needles 5502 protrude from the polymer overmolding and into the adjacent walls of the stomach to suture the respective first and/or second elongated portions 5508 and/or 5510 to the stomach. In some embodiments, the suture needles 5502 may be manipulated using the suture(s) 5514 attached to the respective needle 5502. In some embodiments, instead of applying pressure to the needles 5502 as discussed above, the needles 5502 may be extracted from the polymer overmolding by manipulating the needles 5502 with the attached suture(s) 5514. Referring briefly to FIG. 46, the clamp may, in some embodiments, include one or more visual indicators 4602 for defining locations where sutures may be applied to or embedded within the clamp.

In some embodiments, the bariatric clamp may be attached to and positioned on the exterior surface of the patient's stomach using one or more toggle suture assemblies that are either partially or fully positioned from the exterior of the stomach to the stomach wall or from the exterior wall of the stomach to the interior of the stomach, depending on a desired implementation of a toggle suture. For example, the embodiment of the clamp 5500 illustrated in FIG. 55 may be modified such that the curved needles 5502 in FIG. 55 are replaced by a toggle suture or toggle suture assembly (such as a toggle suture assembly known in the art). In some embodiments, one or more toggle suture assemblies may be temporarily inserted into the clamp 5500 at various locations (e.g., at the recesses 5506) or, in other embodiments, may be lock molded, machined, or installed at desired locations on the bariatric clamp to assist with installation of the clamp on the patient's stomach. In some embodiments, the toggle suture assemblies can be retroactively installed in a pre-manufactured clamp 5500. In one embodiment, various toggle suture assemblies are provided adjacent the first and second ends of the bariatric clamp, such as adjacent the flexible hinge and/or the connection point where the bariatric clamp is closed, and along the first and second elongated members and the bight portion, as desired.

It should be appreciated that the bariatric clamp and/or sutures may be implemented using known or available absorbable materials, such as bio-absorbable materials (e.g., catgut suture), that provide desirable or suitable mechanical or structural properties and integrity for a desired or needed period of time prior to being absorbed or disintegrating to an unacceptable level. Either natural or synthetically absorbable materials may be used. Poly glycol, for example, may be used in certain implementations.

In some embodiments, the method illustrated in FIG. 45 may further include adjusting a length of the bariatric clamp as discussed above with respect to the clamps illustrated in FIGS. 42(a), 42(b), 43(a), 43(b), 44(a) and 44(b). Depending upon the particular embodiment of the clamp, the length of the bariatric clamp may be adjusted in a variety of ways. For example, in the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 42(a), 42(b), 43(a) and 43(b), the length of the clamp may be adjusted by adjusting the length of the first elongated portion and/or the second elongated portion. In the embodiments discussed above with respect to FIGS. 44(a) and 44(b), the length of the clamp may be adjusted by adjusting the positions of the first and second retention features with respect to the receiving portions of the first and second elongated members. Regardless of which clamp is used, the length may be adjusted at any point during the clamp installation. However, it is preferable to adjust the length of the clamp prior to securing the clamp to the patient's stomach. Nevertheless, the clamp may also be uninstalled by reversing any of the steps discussed above (e.g., by removing sutures affixing any portions of the clamp to the stomach), so that the clamp may be removed or adjusted, wherein such adjustments may include adjusting the length of the clamp as discussed herein, or adjusting a position of the clamp on the stomach.

In some embodiments, the method for installing a bariatric clamp may further include ensuring proper installation of the bariatric clamp 4100. This may include measuring a pressure applied on the stomach by the clamp 4100. In some embodiments, the pressure may be measured by placing one or more pressure transducers between the clamp 4100 and one of the sides of the stomach. In some embodiments, a pressure in the range of 0-2 or 0-3 inHg may be desired. Additionally, ensuring proper installation may, in some embodiments, include inserting a radiopaque fluid such as, for example, Barium into the stomach and observing the fluid, for example, via x-ray imaging to determine proper flow between the various regions of the stomach.

Once installation of the clamp is complete, the surgical equipment may be removed, and the internal organs repositioned in their natural positions. Other precautions may be taken including, for example, cleaning or cauterizing any bleeding tissue to prevent clotting.

Magnetic Inserts

In some embodiments, the clamp may include insert portions to assist with retaining the clamp in a substantially closed position. For example, FIGS. 56(a) and 56(b) illustrate an embodiment of a clamp 5600 similar to the clamp 4100 described above, wherein the clamp 5600 includes various insert portions 5601 for retaining the clamp 5600 in a substantially closed position as illustrated in FIG. 56(a). The clamp 5600, in one embodiment, includes first and second substrate members (not shown) and inserts 5601 (shown dashed) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 5602, a second elongated portion 5604, a bight portion 5606 (including a flexible hinge 5618), a fastener portion 5608, and an engagement portion 5614.

The inserts 5601 may be used, in some embodiments, to engage the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 to partition a patient's stomach in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the inserts 5601 may comprise magnets so that the insert 5601 comprising the first elongated portion 5602 (shown in FIG. 56(a) as 5601A) is capable of engaging the insert 5601 comprising the second elongated portion 5602 (shown in FIG. 56(a) as 5601B) via a magnetic force to retain the clamp 5600 in a substantially closed position. In some embodiments, both insert 5601A and insert 5601B are magnetic or comprised of magnets having opposite polarities so that the inserts 5601A are magnetically attracted to the inserts 5601B. In other embodiments, one of insert 5601A or 5601B are magnetic, or comprised of magnets, and the other respective insert 5601A or 5601B is comprised of a metallic material that is capable of being magnetically attracted to the magnetic insert 5601 comprising the opposing elongated portion. For example, insert 5601A may comprise a magnet and insert 5601B may comprise a metallic material that is capable of being magnetically attracted to magnetic insert 5601A, and vice versa.

It should be appreciated that the inserts 5601 comprising one of the elongated portions of the clamp 5600 may be a single insert 5601 as illustrated in FIGS. 56(a) and 56(b). In other embodiments, the inserts 5601 comprising one of the elongated portions may comprise a plurality of inserts 5601 as illustrated in FIGS. 56(c) and 56(d). In yet another embodiment, a single insert 5601 may comprise one of the elongated portions and a plurality of inserts 5601 may comprise the opposing elongated portion.

In some embodiments, the inserts 5601 may comprise a portion of the substrate member comprising one of the elongated portions of the clamp 5600. For example, referring briefly to FIG. 57(a), the clamp 5600 is illustrated with a first substrate member 5701 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 5602 and a second substrate member 5702 comprising at least a portion of the second elongated portion 5604. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57(a), the first substrate member 5701 includes an insert 5601 disposed within a recess 5703 formed in the first substrate member 5701. Similarly, the second substrate member 5702 includes an insert 5601 disposed within a recess 5703 formed in the second substrate member 5702. It should be appreciated that the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57(a) may be implemented with one insert 5601 in each of the respective substrate members 5701 and 5702 as illustrated, or it may be implemented with a plurality of inserts 5601 in one or both of the respective substrate members 5701 and 5702.

In some embodiments, the inserts 5601 may be positioned between a surface of the substrate member and the outside surface of the overmolding polymer or elastomer material. For example, referring briefly to FIG. 57(b), the clamp 5600 is illustrated with a first substrate member 5701 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 5602 and a second substrate member 5702 comprising at least a portion of the second elongated portion 5604. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57(b), the first elongated portion 5602 includes an insert 5601 positioned between a surface 5704 of the first substrate member 5701 and the overmolding 5705. Similarly, the second elongated portion 5604 includes an insert 5601 positioned between a surface 5706 of the second substrate member 5702 and the overmolding 5705. It should be appreciated that the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57(b) may be implemented with one insert 5601 in each of the respective elongated portions 5602 and 5604 as illustrated, or it may be implemented with a plurality of inserts 5601 in one or both of the respective elongated portions 5602 and 5604.

In yet another embodiment, the inserts 5601 may be embedded within a surface of the respective first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604. For example, referring briefly to FIG. 57(c), the clamp 5600 is illustrated with an insert 5601 embedded within a surface 5708 of the first elongated portion 5602, and an insert 5601 embedded within a surface 5710 of the second elongated portion 5604. It should be appreciated that the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 57(c) may be implemented with one insert 5601 in each of the respective elongated portions 5602 and 5604 as illustrated, or it may be implemented with a plurality of inserts 5601 in one or both of the respective elongated portions 5602 and 5604.

The first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 serve as a partition-forming section located towards the distal end of the bariatric clamp 5600. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 56(a) and 10, when the clamp 5600 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 are engaged via a magnetic force to partition the patient's stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 5606 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 5600. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

Referring again to FIGS. 56(a)-56(d) and 57(a)-57(c), the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 are joined by the bight portion 5606, which is disposed generally at the proximal end of the clamp 5600. The bight portion 5606 includes a flexible hinge 5618 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The flexible hinge 5618 is flexible and stretchable, thereby allowing the clamp 5600 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position as illustrated in FIG. 56(a), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position. It should be appreciated that the flexible hinge 5618 allows the clamp 5600 to flex, twist, contort, expand, stretch, or flex in virtually any desired angle or position.

When the clamp 5600 is installed, the flexible hinge 5618 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 5606 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The stretching or expanding of the flexible hinge 5618 also allows the clamp 5600 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 5600, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 5618 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 5600, such as the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604.

The clamp 5600 may be installed in a manner consistent with that discussed above with respect to the clamp 4100 and the methods illustrated in FIGS. 45 and/or 47, except that the positioning of the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 (as discussed with reference to block 4512 of FIG. 45) is performed such that a magnetic attraction between the inserts 5601 engages the respective first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 to retain the clamp 5600 in a substantially closed position to apply pressure to the stomach to partition a cavity inside the stomach. Similarly, the clamp 5600 may be uninstalled by reversing one or more of the steps for installing the clamp 5600, including disengaging the first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604 such that the magnetic force is broken between the inserts 5601 comprising the respective first and second elongated portions 5602 and 5604.

In some embodiments implementing inserts, the fastener portion and engagement portion may be eliminated. Examples of such embodiments are illustrated in FIGS. 58(a)-58(d), wherein the clamp 5800 is similar to the clamp 5600 except that the clamp 5800 does not include the fastener portion 5608 or the engagement portion 5614. The clamp 5800 does include, however, first and second substrate members (not shown) and inserts 5801 (shown dashed) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 5802, a second elongated portion 5804, and a bight portion 5806 (including a flexible hinge 5818).

The clamp 5800 may be installed in a manner consistent with that discussed above with respect to the clamp 4100 and the methods illustrated in FIGS. 45 and/or 47, except that the positioning of the first and second elongated portions 5802 and 5804 (as discussed with reference to block 4512 of FIG. 45) is performed such that a magnetic attraction between the inserts 5801 engages the respective first and second elongated portions 5802 and 5804 to retain the clamp 5800 in a substantially closed position to apply pressure to the stomach to partition a cavity inside the stomach. Similarly, the clamp 5800 may be uninstalled by reversing one or more of the steps for installing the clamp 5800, including disengaging the first and second elongated portions 5802 and 5804 such that the magnetic force is broken between the inserts 5801 comprising the respective first and second elongated portions 5802 and 5804.

Curved Elongated Portions

In some embodiments, the clamp may include curved elongated members, wherein the curvature of the elongated members contours to the stomach's exterior walls to provide better fit around the stomach. For example, FIGS. 59(a) and 59(b) illustrate an embodiment of a clamp 5900 similar to the clamp 4100 described above, wherein the clamp 5900 includes curved elongated members. The clamp 5900 includes first and second substrate members (shown dashed in FIG. 59(b)) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 5902, a second elongated portion 5904, a bight portion 5906 (including a flexible hinge 5918), a fastener portion 5908, and an engagement portion 5914.

As illustrated in FIG. 59(b), the curvature of the first elongated portion 5902 and the second elongated portion 5904 is provided, at least in part, by the curvature of the underlying substrate members. Specifically, the first substrate member 5910 forms the curvature of the first elongated portion 5902, and the second substrate member 5912 forms the curvature of the second elongated portion 5904. In some embodiments, the curvature of the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 contours to the exterior walls of a patient's stomach to provide better fit around the stomach.

The first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 serve as a partition-forming section located towards the distal end of the bariatric clamp 5900. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 59(a) and 10, when the clamp 5900 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 are engaged to partition the patient's stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 5906 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 5900. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

Referring again to FIGS. 59(a) and 59(b), the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 are joined by the bight portion 5906, which is disposed generally at the proximal end of the clamp 5900. The bight portion 5906 includes a flexible hinge 5918 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The flexible hinge 5918 is flexible and stretchable, thereby allowing the clamp 5900 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position as illustrated in FIG. 59(a), to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position. It should be appreciated that the flexible hinge 5918 allows the clamp 5900 to flex, twist, contort, expand, stretch, or flex in virtually any desired angle or position.

Reference is now briefly made to FIGS. 60(a) and 60(b), wherein FIG. 60(a) illustrates an example of a patient's stomach 6000, and FIG. 60(b) shows a cross section view of the stomach 6000 along the line A-A provided in FIG. 60(a). The stomach 6000 includes stomach walls 6010 having an exterior surface 6012 and a generally curved shape.

When the clamp 5900 is installed, as shown in FIG. 61, the curvature of the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 contours to the walls 6010 and exterior surface 6012 of the stomach 6000. The curvature of the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 allows for a better fit around the stomach 6000 while still forming a partition 6102 within the stomach 6000. As discussed above, the bight portion 5906 forms a passage 6104 in the stomach 6000 to allow gastric juices to flow between the excluded section of the stomach 6000 and the vertical pouch of the stomach 6000.

As shown in FIG. 61, the flexible hinge 5918 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 5906 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall 6010 or fluctuations of the passage 6104. The stretching or expanding of the flexible hinge 5918 also allows the clamp 5900 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 5900, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 5918 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 5900, such as the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904.

It should be appreciated that clamp 5900 may be installed and uninstalled in a manner consistent with that discussed above with respect to the clamp 4100 and the methods illustrated in FIGS. 45 and 47. When positioning the first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904, however, the elongated portions may be positioned such that the curvature of the respective first and second elongated portions 5902 and 5904 are aligned to conform to the curvature of the stomach walls 6010.

Cross-Sectional Views

Reference is now made to FIGS. 62 and 63(a)-63(n), which are used in combination to illustrate that any of the clamp embodiments disclosed herein may have any cross-sectional shape, including those explicitly illustrated in FIGS. 63(a)-63(n). FIG. 62 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a clamp 6200 representative of any of the embodiments discussed herein. The clamp 6200 includes a first elongated portion 6210 and a second elongated portion 6220. FIGS. 63(a)-63(n) illustrate various examples of representative cross-sectional views of the first elongated portion 6210 of clamp 6200 as viewed along line A-A of FIG. 62. It should be appreciated that the example cross-sectional views illustrated in FIGS. 63(a)-63(n) may be representative of the cross-sectional shape of the polymer overmolding, the substrate member, or both. It should also be appreciated that the example cross-sectional views illustrated in FIGS. 63(a)-63(h) may be representative of the cross-sectional shape of any other portions of the clamp 6200 including, for example, the second elongated portion 6220.

FIG. 63(a) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a rounded, or circular, shape 6301. FIG. 63(b) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a rectangular shape 6302. FIG. 63(c) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a plano-convex shape 6303, wherein the shape has a convex surface 6303(a), a planar surface 6303(b), and side portions 6303(c). FIG. 63(d) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a biconvex shape 6304, wherein the shape has a first convex surface 6304(a), a second convex surface 6304(b), and side portions 6304(c). FIG. 63(e) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a biconcave shape 6305, wherein the shape has a first concave surface 6305(a), a second concave surface 6305(b), and side portions 6305(c). FIG. 63(f) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a plano-concave shape 6306, wherein the shape has a planar surface 6306(a), a concave surface 6306(b), and side portions 6306(c). FIG. 63(g) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a positive meniscus shape 6307, wherein the shape has a convex surface 6307(a), a concave surface 6307(b) having a radius of curvature that is larger than that of the convex surface 6307(a), and side portions 6307(c). FIG. 63(h) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a negative meniscus shape 6308, wherein the shape has a convex surface 6307(a), a concave surface 6308(b) having a radius of curvature that is less than that of the convex surface 6308(a), and side portions 6308(c). FIG. 63(i) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having an elongated rounded, or oval, shape 6309 oriented with its length in a vertical position. FIG. 63(j) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having an elongated rounded, or oval, shape 6310 oriented with its length in a horizontal position. FIG. 63(k) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having an octagonal shape 6311. FIG. 63(l) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a hexagonal shape 6312. FIG. 63(m) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a triangular shape 6313. FIG. 63(n) illustrates an example cross-sectional view having a plano-convex shape 6314, wherein the shape has a planar surface 6314(a), a convex surface 6314(b), and no side portions.

It should be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of the clamp is not limited to those illustrated in FIGS. 63(a)-63(n) and discussed above. For example, the cross-sectional shape can be any shape and even any combination of shapes, including combinations those shapes discussed above with respect to FIGS. 63(a)-63(n). Furthermore, the cross-sectional shapes discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 63(a)-63(n) may be oriented in any direction or orientation, and are not limited to those shown in FIGS. 63(a)-63 (n).

Suture Portions

FIG. 64 illustrates an example embodiment of a polymer overmolded bariatric clamp 6400 having suture portions 6402 formed therein. The clamp 6400 is similar to that discussed above with respect to the clamp 4100 of FIG. 41, except that the clamp 6400 includes suture portions 6401. The clamp 6400 includes first and second substrate members (not shown) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 6402, a second elongated portion 6404, a bight portion 6406 (including a flexible hinge 6418), a fastener portion 6408, and an engagement portion 6414. As discussed below, the suture portions 6401 are formed, in some embodiments, by the polymer overmold overlaying recesses formed in the substrate members comprising the first and second elongated portions 6402 and 6404, thereby forming polymer regions that are capable of being penetrated by a suture needle to affix the clamp 6400 to the stomach. In other embodiments, the polymer may not encompass the recesses such that the recesses remain unobstructed to provide an opening in the underlying substrate member to receive sutures for affixing the clamp 6400 to the stomach and/or other tissue. In other words, the suture portion 6401 may comprise a recess or opening through both the polymer overmolding and the underlying substrate member.

FIG. 65 illustrates the clamp 6400, wherein the polymer overmolding is illustrated semitransparent to show the first substrate member 6502 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 6402 and a portion of the bight portion 6408, and the second substrate member 6504 comprising at least a portion of the second elongated portion 6404 and a portion of the bight portion 6408.

FIGS. 66(a) and 66(b) illustrate example embodiments of the respective first substrate member 6502 and second substrate member 6504. The substrate members 6502 and 6504 are shown from a profile view in FIG. 66(a), and are shown from a top view in FIG. 66(b). The substrate members 6502 and 6504 are similar to those discussed above with respect to FIGS. 31(a) and 31(b) except that the substrate members 6502 and 6504 have been modified to include recesses 6602 formed in the substrate members 6502 and 6504.

The recesses 6602 are openings through the respective substrate member 6502 or 6504 that are capable of receiving a suture, staple, or other apparatus to affix the clamp 6400 to the stomach and/or other tissue. This may include affixing the clamp 6400 to itself alone or in combination with affixing the clamp 6400 to the stomach and/or other tissue. In some embodiments, the recesses 6602 may also include openings in the overmolding such that the suture portion 6401 is a recess through both the polymer overmolding and the underlying substrate member 6502/6504. The recesses 6602 may be formed at different locations of the substrate members 6502/6504 including, for example, along sides of the elongated portions 6402/6404, along sides of the bight portion 6408, at ends of the substrate members 6502/6504 near the proximal end of the clamp 6400, and at ends of the substrate members 6502/6504 near the distal end of the clamp 6400. FIG. 66(b) shows recesses 6602(a) disposed at ends of the substrate members 6502 and 6504 near the proximal end of the clamp 6400, and recesses 6602(b) disposed at ends of the substrate members 6502 and 6504 near the distal end of the clamp 6400.

In some embodiments, the recesses 6602 are formed in the substrate member 6502 or 6504 such that the perimeter of a recess 6602 is defined by the substrate member 6502 or 6504. For example, FIGS. 67(a)-67(c) show various views of an embodiment of the clamp 6400 with a portion of the overmolding removed to show a portion of the underlying substrate 6504. As shown in FIGS. 67(a)-67(c), the recess 6602 has a perimeter defined, at least partially, by the underlying substrate 6504. Furthermore, the underlying substrate member 6504 includes a portion 6504(a) that is capable of retaining a suture in the recess 6602 to prevent the clamp 6400 from disconnecting from the tissue to which it is sutured. Without the retaining portion 6504(a), a suture could tear through the overmolding, causing the clamp 6400 to become disconnected.

FIG. 68 illustrates an example view of the first elongated portion 6402 and bight portion 6408 of the clamp 6400 having suture portions 6401.

FIG. 69 illustrates an example view of the second elongated portion 6404 and bight portion 6408 of the clamp 6400 having suture portions 6401, wherein a portion of the overmolding is partially removed to show the underlying substrate member 6504.

As discussed above, the first and second elongated portions 6402 and 6404 serve as a partition-forming section of the bariatric clamp 6400. Referring briefly to both FIGS. 64 and 10, when the clamp 6400 is installed within an abdominal cavity, the first and second elongated portions 6402 and 6404 are engaged to partition the stomach into a small, vertical pouch 500 and an excluded section 502. The bight portion 6406 comprises a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the clamp 6400. The passage-forming section allows gastric juices to flow 506 from the excluded section 502 into the vertical pouch 500.

As shown in FIG. 64, the first and second elongated portions 6402 and 6404 are joined by the bight portion 6406, which is disposed generally at the proximal end of the clamp 6400. The bight portion 6406 includes a flexible hinge 6418 formed, in one implementation, from the polymer overmold. The flexible hinge 6418 allows the clamp 6400 to be positioned in a variety of positions ranging from a substantially closed position to a substantially expanded (or fully opened) position. It should be appreciated that the flexible hinge 6418 allows the clamp 6400 to flex, twist, contort, expand, stretch, or flex in virtually any desired angle or position.

When the clamp 6400 is installed, the flexible hinge 6418 permits expansion and movement of the bight portion 6406 to accommodate any irregularities in the stomach wall or fluctuations of the passage-forming section. The stretching or expanding of the flexible hinge 6418 also allows the clamp 6400 to accommodate variations in stomach thicknesses without compromising the pressure applied by the clamp 6400, particularly in the partition-forming section. In some embodiments, the flexible hinge 6418 may be provided at a desired durometer or elasticity that may be the same as or different from that of the polymer or silicone overmolded portions provided in other areas of the clamp 6400, such as the first and second elongated portions 6402 and 6404.

The clamp 6400 may be installed in a manner consistent with that discussed above with respect to the clamp 4100 and the methods illustrated in FIGS. 45 and/or 47. Similarly, the clamp 6400 may be uninstalled by reversing one or more of the steps for installing the clamp 6400.

Bight Portion

It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the disclosed clamp may have an opening (occasionally referred to herein as “slotted aperture”) in the bight portion or flexible hinge. For example, FIG. 70 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp 7000 in accordance with any embodiment disclosed herein, wherein the clamp 7000 includes an opening 7002 in the flexible hinge 7004 of the bight portion 7006. Some embodiments may not include such an opening. In some instances, when the clamp 7000 is installed, a suture may be applied at the opening 7002 to affix the bight portion 7006 of the clamp 7000 to the stomach. If the stomach or clamp 7000 moves or adjusts, the suture may tear through the flexible hinge 7004, which is typically comprised of the overmolding, thereby causing the clamp 7000 to partially disconnect or become uninstalled from the patient's stomach.

Embodiments of the disclosed clamp 7000 may include certain features to prevent the suture installed at the opening 7002 from tearing the clamp 7000. For example, in some embodiments, the flexible hinge may include one or more substrate members embedded within the overmolding forming the flexible hinge 7004. Such examples are illustrated in FIGS. 71-73, which illustrate views of the opening 7002 in the flexible hinge 7004 of the clamp 7000 in FIG. 70. In some embodiments, the one or more substrate members are comprised of a substance capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed at the opening 7002 or the flexible hinge 7004. Examples of such a substance include metal, plastic, rubber, or even a portion of the overmolding having a durometer great enough to withstand the cutting force of the suture.

In FIG. 71, the flexible hinge 7004 includes embedded substrate members 7101-7104 (shown dashed) each comprised of a substance capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed at the opening 7002 or otherwise at the flexible hinge 7004. In the event a suture cuts or tears through the overmolding comprising the flexible hinge 7004, one or more of the embedded substrate members 7101-7104 are capable of retaining the suture within the area defined by the substrate members 7101-7104, thereby preventing further damage to the clamp 7000 and retaining the clamp 7000 as installed on the patient's stomach.

As shown in FIG. 71, the substrate members 7101-7104 are positioned in a rectangular orientation around the opening 7002. Because the flexible hinge 7004 is capable of flexing, twisting, stretching, and otherwise contorting, the substrate members 7101-7104 are not attached to each other to allow for the flexible hinge 7004 to contort or stretch in various directions without substantially impeding such movement of the flexible hinge 7004. In some embodiments, the substrate members 7101-7104 may be integrated. In such embodiments, the substrate members 7101-7104 may be comprised of a material that is capable of stretching or contorting and is also capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed in the opening 7002 or otherwise at the flexible hinge 7004.

In FIG. 72, the flexible hinge 7004 includes embedded substrate members 7201 and 7202 (shown dashed) each comprised of a substance capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed at the opening 7002 or otherwise at the flexible hinge 7004. In the event a suture cuts or tears through the overmolding comprising the flexible hinge 7004, one or more of the embedded substrate members 7201 and 7202 are capable of retaining the suture within the area defined by the substrate members 7201 and 7202, thereby preventing further damage to the clamp 7000 and retaining the clamp 7000 as installed on the patient's stomach.

As shown in FIG. 72, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 each have a horseshoe or U-shaped configuration positioned to overlap around the opening 7002. Because the flexible hinge 7004 is capable of flexing, twisting, stretching, and otherwise contorting, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 are not attached to each other to allow for the flexible hinge 7004 to contort or stretch in various directions without substantially impeding such movement of the flexible hinge 7004. Furthermore, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 overlap each other such that, if the flexible hinge 7004 is stretched as shown in FIG. 73, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 still encompass the perimeter of the opening 7002. In some embodiments, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 may be integrated. In such embodiments, the substrate members 7201 and 7202 may be comprised of a material that is capable of stretching or contorting and is also capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed in the opening 7002 or otherwise at the flexible hinge 7004.

FIG. 74 illustrates an example embodiment of the clamp 7000, wherein the flexible hinge 7004 includes a wired member 7400 at least partially embedded within the overmolding. As shown in FIG. 74, the clamp 7000 includes a first substrate member 7402 and a second substrate member 7404 (both shown dashed) in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The wired member 7400 is coupled at a first end 7401 to the first substrate member 7402, and is coupled at a second end 7403 to the second substrate member 7404. For example, the first substrate member 7402 may have an opening or recess 7406 located toward an end of the first substrate member 7402 through which the first end 7401 of the wired member 7400 may be inserted. Similarly, the second substrate member 7404 may have an opening or recess 7408 located toward an end of the second substrate member 7404 through which the second end 7403 of the wired member 7400 may be inserted. It should be appreciated that the wired member may be coupled to the first and second substrate members 7402 and 7404 (or to other components) in various other ways other than those disclosed herein.

As shown in FIG. 74, the wired member 7400 further includes a ring portion 7405 inserted proximate the opening 7002. In some embodiments, the ring portion 7405 is embedded within the overmolding and is positioned around the circumference of the opening 7002. FIG. 75 illustrates such an embodiment wherein the clamp 7000 is shown from an end view wherein the ring portion 7405 is embedded within the overmolding forming the flexible hinge 7004 and positioned around the circumference, or perimeter, of the opening 7002. In other embodiments, the ring portion 7405 may be positioned outside of the overmolding and within the perimeter of the opening 7002. FIG. 76 illustrates such an embodiment wherein the clamp 7000 is shown from an end view wherein the ring portion 7405 is positioned outside of the overmolding and within the perimeter of the opening 7002.

The wired member 7400, and specifically the ring portion 7405, is comprised of a substance (e.g., metal wiring) capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed at the opening 7002 or the flexible hinge 7004. In the event a suture cuts or tears through the overmolding comprising the flexible hinge 7004, the wire member 7400 is capable of retaining the suture within the area defined by the ring portion 7405 (or preventing the suture from tearing through the flexible hinge 7004), thereby preventing further damage to the clamp 7000 and retaining the clamp 7000 as installed on the patient's stomach. It should also be appreciated that the wired member 7400 is capable of reinforcing the strength and durability of the flexible hinge 7004 and opening 7002 while still allowing for flexibility of the hinge 7004.

In some embodiments, the wired member 7400 may include extra slack in the wire to allow the flexible hinge 7004 to stretch. An example of such an embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 77 and 78. In FIG. 77, the flexible hinge 7004 is shown in a relaxed position, wherein the wired member 7400 includes extra slack 7700 embedded within the flexible hinge 7004. In FIG. 78, the flexible hinge 7004 is shown in a stretched position, wherein the extra slack 7700 of the wired member 7400 is utilized to allow the flexible hinge 7004 to stretch.

In some embodiments, the opening 7002 of the clamp 7000 may include an eyelet disposed within the area of the opening 7002. An example of such an embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 79, wherein the clamp 7000 includes an eyelet 7900 disposed within the area of the opening 7002 in the flexible hinge 7004. In some embodiments, the eyelet 7900 may include arms 7902 that extend into the overmolding of the flexible hinge 7004 to position the eyelet 7900 within the opening 7002 and to anchor the eyelet 7900 into the flexible hinge 7004. In some embodiments, the eyelet 7900 may further include protrusions 7904 coupled to the arms 7902 and protruding into the flexible hinge 7004 to further anchor the eyelet 7900 into the flexible hinge 7004.

The eyelet 7900 includes an opening 7905 for receiving a suture, and may be comprised of a substance capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture installed within the opening 7905 of the eyelet 7900. The eyelet 7900 prevents the suture from tearing through the opening 7002 or the flexible hinge 7004. Furthermore, the eyelet 7900 is disposed within the area of the opening 7002 and, therefore, does not prevent the opening 7002 or flexible hinge 7004 from stretching, twisting, flexing, or otherwise contorting.

In some embodiments, the clamp 7000 may include a separate portion or plate that is capable of being applied over the bight portion 7006 or flexible hinge 7004 of the clamp 7000 and then sutured to the clamp 7000 and stomach (or to the stomach only) to provide reinforcement to the flexible hinge 7004 and/or bight portion 7006 of the clamp 7000. The separate plate may be of various sizes depending upon the size of the patient's stomach, and may be comprised of titanium or other material capable of withstanding the cutting force of a suture. Such an example is illustrated in FIGS. 80(a) and 80(b), wherein a plate 8000 is shown separate from the clamp 7000 in FIG. 80(a), and is shown installed over the bight portion 7006 of the clamp 7000 in FIG. 80(b). The plate 8000 may include one or more recesses 8001 for coupling the plate 8000 to the stomach or to the bight portion 7006 of the clamp 7000.

In some embodiments, the bight portion may include a T-fastener (or toggle suture) at least partially embedded within the flexible hinge and having a ring portion through which a suture may be applied to affix the clamp to the stomach during installation and/or to secure the clamp in place after it is installed. FIG. 81 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp 8100 having a T-fastener 8102 embedded at least partially within the flexible hinge 8104 of the clamp 8100. Coupled to the T-fastener 8102 is a ring portion 8106 through which a suture may be passed to affix the clamp 8100 to a patient's stomach. In such an embodiment, the flexible hinge may or may not include an opening. Similarly, FIG. 82 illustrates an embodiment of a clamp 8200 having a ring portion 8206 looping through suture portions of the flexible hinge 8204 of the clamp 8200. So as to facilitate easy installation of the clamp 8200, a suture may be passed through the ring portion 8206 to affix the clamp 8200 to the patient's stomach. An example of such a suture technique is discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,596,014, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

In some embodiments, a suture string may be pre-attached to the clamp for use in affixing the clamp the patient's stomach. FIG. 83 illustrates an embodiment of a clamp 8300 having barbed suture strings 8306 affixed to suture portions. The barbed suture strings 8306 have hooks at a distal end thereof to facilitate suturing to the patient's stomach. The barbs of the suture strings 8306 help prevent the suture strings 8306 from being pulled out, for example during expansion of the stomach caused by the patient consuming an amount of food that causes stretching of the stomach. In other embodiments, for example as shown in FIG. 84, the suture strings 8406 may not be barbed, and also may have T-fasteners as described above affixed to the distal ends thereof. The T-fasteners are passed through the patient's stomach during suturing of the clamp 8400 to the patient's stomach, and act to prevent the suture strings 8306 from being pulled out.

Inflatable Portions

In some embodiments, the clamp may include inflatable portions to assist with positioning or retaining the clamp on a patient's stomach when the clamp is installed in a substantially closed position. For example, FIGS. 85(a) and 85(b) illustrate an embodiment of a clamp 8500 similar to the clamp 4100 described above, wherein the clamp 8500 includes various inflatable portions 8501(shown as dashed portions 8501A and 8501B) for positioning or retaining the clamp 8500 in a substantially closed position. The clamp 8500, in one embodiment, includes first and second substrate members (not shown) overmolded in a polymer or elastomer material to form a first elongated portion 8502, a second elongated portion 8504, a bight portion 8506 (including a flexible hinge 8518), a fastener portion 8508, and an engagement portion 8514. The inflatable portions 8501 are shown in a deflated state in FIGS. 85(a) and 85(b), and are shown dashed to indicate that they are positioned in the polymer overmolding. Although, in some embodiments, the inflatable portions may be positioned outside of the polymer overmolding.

The clamp 8500 and portions of the clamp 8500, and other similar clamps and similar portions of those clamps, may be used as discussed herein in accordance with the foregoing disclosure (e.g., to partition the stomach, to allow flexing with the flexible hinge 8518, to be installed via trocar, to be installed in an expanded/open position, to retain the clamp 8500 in a closed position, etc.), but with the added benefits provided by the inflatable portions 8501. For example, the first and second elongated portions 8502 and 8504 generally form a partition-forming section of the clamp 8500, and the bight portion 8506 generally forms a passage-forming section of the clamp 8500, as should be understood from the foregoing disclosure. The partition-forming and passage-forming sections (and the clamp 8500, in general) operate in accordance with the disclosure provided for other clamp embodiments discussed herein. In embodiments of the clamp featuring the inflatable portions 8501, however, the pressure applied by the partition-forming section of the clamp 8500 may be provided by the air pressure inside the inflatable portions 8501. In some embodiments, this air pressure may be adjusted to provide a customized or modified application or fit of the clamp on the patient's stomach.

Although it is not illustrated in FIG. 85(a) or 85(b), it should be understood that, in some embodiments, the inflatable portions 8501 may be inflated and deflated using a port connected to one or more of the inflatable portions 8501 via a tube as shown in FIGS. 86-89. The port(s) may be located proximate the clamp 8500 as shown in FIGS. 86-88, or, as shown in FIG. 89, the port(s) may be a subcutaneous port that is accessible from outside the patient's body and extended from the clamp 8500 via one or more tubes coupled to the inflatable portions 8501. The port(s) and tube(s) discussed herein are provided to facilitate inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable portions 8501. Air may be introduced or expelled at the port(s). Introduced air travels into the port(s) and along the tube(s) to inflate the inflatable portions 8501. Air that is expelled travels from the inflatable portions 8501 along the tube(s) and out the port(s).

In some embodiments, the inflatable portions 8501 are disposed along interior sections 8515 of the first and second elongated portions 8502 and 8504, generally along the partition-forming section of the clamp 8500. For example, FIGS. 85(a), 85(b), 86, and 87 illustrate embodiments where one or more of the inflatable portions 8501A and 8501B are positioned or embedded within the polymer overmolding of the respective first and second elongated portions 8502 and 8504. In such embodiments, the polymer overmolding may include one or more slits or openings (not shown) to allow the inflatable portion 8501 to protrude from the polymer overmolding when the inflatable portion 8501 is inflated to provide a cushion between the clamp 8500 and the stomach of a patient. In other embodiments, one or more of the inflatable portions may be positioned outside the polymer overmolding in both inflated and deflated states. In such embodiments, the ports and/or tubes may be positioned either outside the polymer overmolding, or within the polymer overmolding as discussed herein.

In FIG. 86, the inserts 8501 are shown positioned within a portion of the substrate member comprising one of the elongated portions of the clamp 8500. For example, the clamp 8500 is illustrated with a first substrate member 8601 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 8502 and a second substrate member 8602 comprising at least a portion of the second elongated portion 8504. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 86, the first substrate member 8601 includes inflatable portion 8501A disposed within a recess 8603 formed in the first substrate member 8601. Similarly, the second substrate member 8602 includes inflatable portion 8501B disposed within a recess 8604 formed in the second substrate member 8602. It should be appreciated that the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 86 may be implemented with one inflatable portion 8501 in each of the respective substrate members 8601 and 8602 as illustrated, or it may be implemented with a plurality of inflatable portions 8501 in one or both of the respective substrate members 8601 and 8602.

As shown in FIG. 86, the first inflatable portion 8501A is inflated and/or deflated using a port 8610A positioned on the first elongated portion 8502. The port 8610A is positioned on a surface (e.g., an external surface 8615) of the first elongated portion 8502 and is coupled to the first inflatable portion 8501A via a tube 8612A embedded in the polymer overmolding (thereby forming a chamber 8611A within the polymer overmolding, the chamber 8611A containing the tube 8612A) and connected to the first inflatable portion 8501A at an interface 8613A. Similarly, the second inflatable portion 8501B is inflated and/or deflated using a port 8610B positioned on the second elongated portion 8504. The port 8610B is positioned on a surface (e.g., an external surface 8615) of the second elongated portion 8504 and is coupled to the second inflatable portion 8501B via a tube 8612B embedded in the polymer overmolding (thereby forming a chamber 8611B within the polymer overmolding, the chamber 8611B containing the tube 8612B) and connected to the second inflatable portion 8501B at an interface 8613B. In some embodiments, the clamp 8500 may have a single port 8610 coupled to all of the inflatable portions 8501 via a plurality of tubes 8612. An example of one such embodiment is provided in FIG. 87. It should be appreciated, however, that all clamp embodiments having inflatable portions may include an implementation having one or multiple ports (including subcutaneous ports) and tubes, and that the port(s) may be positioned in any location on the clamp 8500 that does not interfere with operation or installation of the clamp 8500.

The ports 8610 and tubes 8612 are provided to facilitate inflation and deflation of the inflatable portions 8501. Air may be introduced or expelled at the ports 8610. Introduced air travels into the ports 8610 and along the tubes 8612 to inflate the inflatable portions 8501. Air that is expelled travels from the inflatable portions 8501 along the tubes 8612 and out the ports 8610. In some embodiments, the tubes 8612 may be positioned along or within respective ones of the substrate members 8601 and 8602 to provide alignment and/or protection of the respective tubes 8612. For example, a tube 8612 positioned within a substrate member 8601/8602 may be protected from external pressures or forces by the structure of the substrate member 8601/8602.

FIG. 87 illustrates another embodiment of the clamp 8500, wherein one or more of the inflatable portions 8501A and 8501B are positioned or embedded within the polymer overmolding of the respective first and second elongated portions 8502 and 8504. As shown in FIG. 87, the inflatable portions 8501 may be positioned between a surface of the substrate member and the interior surface of the overmolding polymer or elastomer material. For example, the clamp 8500 is illustrated in FIG. 87 with a first substrate member 8601 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 8502 and a second substrate member 8602 comprising at least a portion of the second elongated portion 8504. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 87, the first elongated portion 8502 includes an inflatable portion 8501A positioned between a surface 8704 of the first substrate member 8601 and the interior surface 8705 of the overmolding. Similarly, the second elongated portion 8604 includes an inflatable portion 8501B positioned between a surface 8706 of the second substrate member 8602 and the interior surface 8705 of the overmolding.

Similar to the clamp embodiment shown in FIG. 86, the first and second inflatable portions 8501 are inflated and/or deflated using a port 8610 and one or more tubes 8612. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 87, however, there is a single port 8610 shared by both inflatable portions 8501. The port 8610 is positioned on the bight portion 8506 and coupled to the first and second inflatable portions 8501 via tubes 8612 in the polymer overmolding. The clamp 8500 includes one or more chambers 8611 defined within the polymer overmolding, wherein the chambers 8611 contain the tubes 8612. In FIG. 87, a first tube 8612A extends from the port 8610 along a first chamber 8611A in the bight portion 8506 and first elongated portion 8502 and is connected to the first inflatable portion 8501A at an interface 8613A. Similarly, a second tube 8612B extends from the port 8610 along a second chamber 8611B in the bight portion 8506 and second elongated portion 8504 and is connected to the second inflatable portion 8501B at an interface 8613B.

FIG. 88 illustrates another embodiment of the clamp 8500, wherein one or more of the inflatable portions 8501 are positioned along the interior sections 8515 at interior surfaces 8815 of the polymer overmolding of the respective first and second elongated portions 8502 and 8504. As shown in FIG. 88, the first inflatable portion 8501A is positioned on the interior surface 8815A of the first elongated portion 8502. Similarly, the second inflatable portion 8501B is positioned on the interior surface 8815B of the second elongated portion 8504. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 86, the first inflatable portion 8501A is inflated and/or deflated using a port 8610A positioned on the first elongated portion 8502. The port 8610A is positioned on an external surface 8817 of the first elongated portion 8502 and is coupled to the first inflatable portion 8501A via a tube 8612A positioned within a chamber 8611A in the polymer overmolding (in some embodiments, the chamber 8611A may also extend through a substrate member). The tube 8612A is connected to the first inflatable portion 8501A at an interface 8613A. Similarly, the second inflatable portion 8501B is inflated and/or deflated using a port 8610B positioned on the second elongated portion 8504. The port 8610B is positioned on an external surface 8819 of the second elongated portion 8504 and is coupled to the second inflatable portion 8501B via a tube 8612B positioned within a chamber 8611B in the polymer overmolding (in some embodiments, the chamber 8611B may also extend through a substrate member). The tube 8612B is connected to the second inflatable portion 8501B at an interface 8613B.

Referring briefly to FIG. 89, an example embodiment of the clamp 8500 is shown installed on a patient's stomach 8902 and implemented with a subcutaneous port 8910. The subcutaneous port 8910 is accessible from outside the patient's body 8900 and is extended from the clamp 8500 via one or more tubes 8612 coupled to the inflatable portions 8501 as discussed in accordance with any of the disclosed embodiments provided herein. The port 8910 and tube 8612 are provided to facilitate inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable portions 8501 of the clamp 8500. Air may be introduced or expelled at the port 8910. Introduced air travels into the port 8910 and along the tube 8612 to inflate the inflatable portions 8501. Air that is expelled travels from the inflatable portions 8501 along the tube 8612 and out the port 8910. It should be appreciated that the subcutaneous port may be implemented with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the subcutaneous port 8910 and tube 8612 may be used to adjust the pressure in the inflatable portions 8501 of the clamp 8500.

Referring now to FIG. 90, a representative embodiment of the clamp 8500 is shown with the inflatable portions 8501 in an inflated state. When inflated, the inflatable portions 8501 may be used, in some embodiments, to cushion the clamp 8500 against the stomach of a patient once the clamp has been installed in a closed position on the stomach. This cushion allows for the clamp 8500 to be secured in place on the stomach and to accommodate irregularities in the stomach wall while also forming a partition within the stomach. In some embodiments, the air pressure in the inflatable portions 8501 may be adjusted as desired to provide a customized fit on the stomach and to adjust the pressure applied to the stomach by the partition-forming section of the clamp 8500. It should be understood that the advantages and benefits discussed herein with respect to the inflatable portions is applicable to all clamp embodiments incorporating the inflatable portions, and not just those associated with the specifically described reference numerals.

It should be appreciated that the inflatable portions may be incorporated in any of the disclosed clamp embodiments provided herein. For example, FIG. 91 illustrates an example embodiment of a clamp 9100 similar to the clamp 7000 discussed above with respect to FIG. 70. The clamp 9100 includes inflatable portions 9101 (shown in an inflated state), wherein a first inflatable portion 9101A is positioned along a first elongated portion 9102 of the clamp 9100, and a second inflatable portion 9101B is positioned along a second elongated portion 9104 of the clamp 9100. The example embodiment of the clamp 9100 illustrated in FIG. 91 features a port 9110 positioned at the bight portion 9106 of the clamp 9100. In accordance with the foregoing disclosure, the port 9110 is provided to facilitate inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable portions 9101 via tubes (not shown). Air may be introduced or expelled at the port 9110. Introduced air travels into the port 9110 and along the tubes (not shown) to inflate the inflatable portions 9101. Air that is expelled travels from the inflatable portions 9101 along the tubes and out the port 9110. It should be appreciated that the clamp 9100 may be implemented, in alternate embodiments, with ports 9110 positioned on the first and second elongated portions 9102 and 9104, or having a subcutaneous port.

Inflatable Substrate Members

In some embodiments, the inflatable portions may provide a substitute for all, or portions of, the rigid substrate members included in any of the clamp embodiments provided herein. In such embodiments where the inflatable portions are used as a substitute for rigid substrate members, the clamp may be considered as having inflatable substrate members. These inflatable substrate members function in substantially the same manner as the rigid substrate members, except the inflatable substrate members are more flexible, provide the advantages discussed above with respect to inflatable portions, may be adjusted in some embodiments to provide varying levels of inflation/pressure, and may be installed in a deflated form that permits the clamp to be more flexible to facilitate an easier installation. For example, FIG. 92 illustrates an embodiment of a clamp 9200 similar to the clamp 4100 described above, wherein the clamp 9200 includes inflatable portions 9202A and 9202B (shown dashed) as substitutes for the rigid substrate members 4101 and 4103 in FIG. 41(a). The clamp 9200 operates similar to the clamp 4100, except that the rigid substrate members 4101 and 4103 are replaced with inflatable portions 9202A and 9202B.

The clamp 9200, in one embodiment, comprises a polymer material and includes a first elongated portion 9214, a second elongated portion 9216, a bight portion 9218 (including a flexible hinge 9220 formed by the polymer material), a fastener portion 9222, and an engagement portion 9224. The clamp 9200 also includes a first inflatable portion 9202A that is inflated and/or deflated using a port 9204A coupled to the first inflatable portion 9202A via a tube 9206A. The tube 9206A and inflatable portion 9202A are positioned within a chamber 9210A formed in the polymer material and are coupled together at an interface 9208A. In its inflated state, the first inflatable portion 9202A generally fills the chamber 9210A and takes the shape of the rigid substrate member 4101 (see FIG. 41(a)) and functions in a manner similar to the substrate member 4101 as discussed above. When deflated, the first inflatable portion 9202A is positioned within the chamber 9210A in a flaccid state.

The clamp 9200 also includes a second inflatable portion 9202B that is inflated and/or deflated using a second port 9204B coupled to the second inflatable portion 9202B via a tube 9206B. The tube 9206B and inflatable portion 9202B are positioned within a chamber 9210B formed in the polymer material of the clamp 9200 and are coupled together at an interface 9208B. In its inflated state, the second inflatable portion 9202B generally fills the chamber 9210B and takes the shape of the rigid substrate member 4103 (see FIG. 41(a)) and functions in a manner similar to the substrate member 4103 as discussed above. When deflated, the second inflatable portion 9202B is positioned within the chamber 9210B in a flaccid state.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 92, the port 9204A is positioned on a first arm 9212 of the clamp 9200. The first arm 9212 is formed of a polymer material having the chamber 9210A formed therein to house the first inflatable portion 9202A and first tube 9206A. The first arm 9212 forms the first elongated portion 9214 of the clamp 9200, a portion of the bight portion 9218 of the clamp 9200, and the engagement portion 9224. Although the port 9204A is shown on the first arm 9212 of the clamp 9200, the port 9204A may be placed in other locations including, for example, the bight portion 9218 of the clamp 9200.

Similarly, the port 9204B is positioned on a second arm 9226 of the clamp 9200. The second arm 9226 is formed of a polymer material having the chamber 9210B formed therein to house the second inflatable portion 9202B and second tube 9206B. The second arm 9226 forms the second elongated portion 9216 of the clamp 9200, a portion of the bight portion 9218 of the clamp 9200, and the fastener portion 9222. Although the port 9204B is shown on the second arm 9226 of the clamp 9200, the port 9204B may be placed in other locations including, for example, the bight portion 9218 of the clamp 9200.

Additionally, in accordance with other embodiments disclosed herein, the first and second inflatable portions 9202 may share a single port 9204 located anywhere on the clamp 9200. An example of such an embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 93, wherein the clamp 9300 has a port 9304 located on the flexible hinge 9320 of the bight portion 9318. The clamp 9300 is identical to the clamp 9200 of FIG. 92 except that the clamp 9300 has one port 9304 connected to both a first tube 9306A and a second tube 9306B. The first tube 9306A connects to the first inflatable portion 9302A at an interface 9308A. The first inflatable portion 9302A is positioned within a chamber 9310A in a first arm 9312 of the clamp 9300. The second tube 9306B connects to the second inflatable portion 9302B at an interface 9308B. The second inflatable portion 9302B is positioned within a chamber 9310B in a second arm 9326 of the clamp 9300. In other embodiments, the port(s) 9204 or 9304 may be a subcutaneous port. It should be understood that other embodiments may be provided such as, for example, one or more subcutaneous ports each designated for each inflatable portion, and a single port connected to one or more of the inflatable portions via one or more tubes.

In some embodiments, a clamp may include inflatable portions at different locations within the clamp. For example, FIG. 94 illustrates an embodiment of a clamp 9400 having a first set of inflatable portions 9402A and 9402B located in the bight portion 9418 of the clamp 9400, and a second set of inflatable portions 9404A and 9404B located in respective elongated portions 9414 and 9416 of the clamp 9400. The clamp 9400 includes a first arm 9412 and a second arm 9426 and operates similar to clamps 9200 and 9300.

The first set of inflatable portions 9402A and 9402B are inflated and/or deflated using a port 9405 located on the bight portion 9418. The port 9405 is connected to both a first tube 9403A and a second tube 9403B. The first tube 9403A connects to the first inflatable portion 9402A at an interface 9408A. The first inflatable portion 9402A and first tube 9403A are positioned within a chamber 9410A in the bight portion 9418 of the clamp 9400. The second tube 9403B connects to the second inflatable portion 9402B at an interface 9408B. The second inflatable portion 9402B and second tube 9403B are positioned within a chamber 9410B in the bight portion 9418 of the clamp 9400.

The second set of inflatable portions 9404A and 9404B are inflated and/or deflated using respective ports 9415A and 9415B located on the respective first and second arms 9412 and 9426 of the clamp 9400. The port 9415A is connected to a first tube 9413A. The first tube 9413A connects to the first inflatable portion 9404A at an interface 9409A. The first inflatable portion 9404A and the first tube 9413A are positioned within a chamber 9411A in the first arm 9412 of the clamp 9400. The port 9415B is connected to a second tube 9413B. The second tube 9413B connects to the second inflatable portion 9404B at an interface 9409B. The second inflatable portion 9404B and the second tube 9413B are positioned within a chamber 9411B in the second arm 9426 of the clamp 9400.

The clamp 9400 is similar to clamps 9200 and 9300 except that the inflatable substrate members are divided into multiple portions. Specifically, the first set of inflatable portions 9402 is located in the bight portion 9418 and the second set of inflatable portions 9404 is located in the elongated portions 9414 and 9416 of the clamp 9400. The first set of inflatable portions 9402 may be inflated/deflated separately from the second set of inflatable portions 9404 using the port 9405 located in the bight portion 9418 of the clamp 9400. The second set of inflatable portions 9404 may be inflated/deflated via ports 9415A and 9415B located on the first arm 9412 and second arm 9426, respectively, of the clamp 9400. Thus, the air pressure of the respective first and second sets of inflatable portions 9402 and 9404 may be controlled and/or adjusted independently. Specifically, the first set of inflatable portions 9402 may be controlled and/or adjusted independently from the second set of inflatable portions 9404. Additionally, the first inflatable portion 9404A of the second set may be controlled and/or adjusted separately from the second inflatable portion 9404B of the second set. This is because a different port is used to control and/or adjust the inflation/deflation of each respective inflatable portion. Although it is not illustrated, in some embodiments, a separate port may be used to independently control and/or adjust each of the first and second inflatable portions 9402A and 9402B comprising the first set of inflatable portions. In other words, a first port could be used to control and/or adjust the air pressure of the first inflatable portion 9402A and a second port could be used to control and/or adjust the air pressure of the second inflatable portion 9402B.

Referring again to FIG. 92, the clamp 9200 and portions of the clamp 9200, and other similar clamps and similar portions of those clamps, may be used as discussed herein in accordance with the foregoing disclosure (e.g., to partition the stomach, to allow flexing with the flexible hinge 9220, to be installed via trocar, to be installed in an expanded/open position, to retain the clamp 9200 in a closed position, etc.), but with the added benefits provided by the inflatable portions 9202. For example, the first and second elongated portions 9214 and 9216 generally form a partition-forming section of the clamp 9200, and the bight portion 9218 generally forms a passage-forming section of the clamp 9200, as should be understood from the foregoing disclosure. The partition-forming and passage-forming sections (and the clamp 9200, in general) operate in accordance with the disclosure provided for other clamp embodiments discussed herein, but with the added benefits provided by the inflatable portions 9202.

One benefit of using inflatable portions 9202 in lieu of the substrate members is that the clamp 9200 is more flexible, especially when the inflatable portions 9202 are deflated, thereby allowing for easier installation. For example, when the inflatable portions 9202 are deflated, the clamp 9200 is more flexible, and may be inserted into a trocar more easily and may be more easily manipulated when installing the clamp 9200 on a patient's stomach. What's more, the inflatable portions 9202 become more rigid as they are inflated. Therefore, one or more of the inflatable portions 9202 may be inflated as desired when it is preferable to have respective arms of the clamp 9202 in a rigid state. Conversely, one or more of the inflatable portions 9202 may be deflated as desired when it is preferable to have respective arms of the clamp 9202 in a more flexible state.

Additionally, the inflatable portions 9202 may, in some embodiments, be adjusted by inflating or deflating the respective inflatable portions 9202 such that a desired rigidity of the inflatable portions 9202 is achieved. This allows for the clamp 9202 to provide a customized and adjustable fit and/or pressure applied to the patient's stomach, which may be adjusted as desired. In some embodiments, the inflatable portions 9202 are not adjustable.

As previously mentioned, the inflatable portions may be used as substitutes for the rigid substrate members of any of the clamp embodiments disclosed herein. For example, FIGS. 95(a) and 95(b) illustrate example embodiments of a clamp 9500 similar to the angled clamp embodiment described above with respect to FIGS. 54(a) and 54(b), wherein the clamp 9500 includes inflatable substrates as substitutes for the rigid substrate members 4301, 4303, and 4307 described in connection with FIGS. 54(a) and 54(b). The clamp 9500 operates similar to the clamp 4300 described in FIGS. 54(a) and 54(b), except that the rigid substrate members are replaced with inflatable substrate members.

Specifically, in FIGS. 95(a) and 95(b) the clamp 9500 is installed on a stomach 9550 and includes a first inflatable substrate 9502 comprising at least a portion of the first elongated portion 9504, a second inflatable substrate 9506 comprising at least a portion of the bight portion 9508, and a third inflatable substrate (not shown) comprising at least a portion of a second elongated portion (not shown) positioned on an opposite side of the stomach 9550 from the first elongated portion 9504. As shown in FIG. 95(a), one or more adjustable portions 9510 are hinged such that the bight portion 9508 is angled in a first direction relative to the first elongated portion 9504 and second elongated portion. As shown in FIG. 95(b), one or more adjustable portions 9510 are hinged such that the bight portion 9508 is angled in a second direction relative to the first elongated portion 9504 and second elongated portion. It should understood that the ports and tubes are not shown in FIGS. 95(a) and 95(b). Additionally, the bight portion may include only one inflatable substrate, or may include two or more inflatable substrates.

With reference to FIG. 96, a bariatric clamp 9600 is disclosed. Bariatric clamp 9600 may comprise aspects of any one of the bariatric clamps discussed herein above and/or may comprise combinations of aspects of bariatric clamps discussed herein above in addition to further features. For example, bariatric clamp 9600 may comprise a tip string 9603 configured to aid installation of the bariatric clamp 9600. In various embodiments, tip string 9603 comprises a suture thread, although in further instances, a polymeric extension, or an embedded flexible member, and/or any aspect extending flexibly from a tip of a portion 9601 of the bariatric clamp 9600 and capable of being grasped by a tool during installation of the bariatric clamp 9600 may be used. In various embodiments, tip string 9603 comprises a suture thread installed into the bariatric clamp 9600 by a needle and tied around an aspect of the bariatric clamp 9600 such as an internal structure and/or an overmold of the bariatric clamp 9600. In further instances, tip string 9603 comprises a suture thread formed into the bariatric clamp 9600 during initial construction, such as extending from an internal structure of the bariatric clamp 9600 and outwardly through an overmold aspect of the bariatric clamp 9600. In various instances, the tip string 9603 may be configured to be grasped by a tool during installation of the bariatric clamp 9600 to position the bariatric clamp 9600 and/or to aid closure of the bariatric clamp 9600. Moreover, while the tip string 9603 is depicted at the distal end of a portion 9601 of the bariatric clamp 9600, one may appreciate that the tip string 9603 may attach at other positions, including midpoints of portions of the bariatric clamp 9600. A tip string 9603 may have a length sufficient to facilitate grasping and use to aid installation of the bariatric clamp. Thus the length of a tip string 9603 may in different embodiments be different lengths depending on the position at which the tip string 9603 is attached.

Embodiments of the foregoing clamps having inflatable portions may be installed in accordance with the installation procedures provided herein for the various clamp embodiments. For example, the clamps 8500 and 9200 are similar to the clamp 4100 provided in FIGS. 41(a)-41(e) and discussed herein. As such, the clamps 8500 and 9200 may be installed in accordance with the disclosed installation methods for the clamp 4100 (and other similar clamps). These clamps, as well as other clamp embodiments disclosed herein, may be installed using an insertion or installation tool, or may be installed without use of such tool. Additionally, the clamp 9100 is similar to the clamp 7000 provided in FIG. 70 and discussed herein as having various suture portions. As such, the clamp 9100 may be installed in accordance with the disclosed installation methods for the clamp 7000 (and other similar clamps). Again, this clamp, and other clamp embodiments disclosed herein, may be installed using an insertion or installation tool, or may be installed without use of such tool. Moreover, according to FIG. 96 each embodiment of the foregoing clamps may include a tip string 9603 similar to bariatric clamp 9600 in addition to their own distinctive features and each installation method may make use of a tip string 9603.

In the installation procedures provided herein, care should be taken to avoid puncturing the inflatable portions. In the embodiments disclosed herein, the inflatable portions may be formed of any material that is capable of achieving the desired effects described herein. In some embodiments, the inflatable portions and/or chambers in which the inflatable portions are positioned may include a lining, coating, or barrier that protects the inflatable portions from punctures, particularly from needles used to suture the clamp.

It should be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the disclosed clamp without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the inflatable portions may extend beyond the partition-forming section, or may otherwise be positioned along the bight or flexible hinge portions of the clamp. In some embodiments, the inflatable portions may be provided to adjust the size of the passage formed by the passage-forming section of the clamp. In such embodiments, the inflatable portions may be provided solely on the passage-forming section of the clamp, or may alternately be provided to extend along both the partition-forming and passage-forming sections of the clamp. In embodiments providing inflatable portions to adjust the passage, the inflatable portions may be provided in the clamp in a manner similar to the various embodiments disclosed herein (e.g., embedded within the polymer overmolding and within a substrate member, on a surface of the polymer overmolding, and between the polymer overmolding and substrate member). Additionally, the pressure of inflatable portions may be adjusted via ports and tubes as discussed in the various embodiments provided herein.

A number of additional and alternative embodiments of the surgical clamps, installation tools and methods for installing can have characteristics that are different from those described above. For example, it is envisioned that a surgical clamp not intended for bariatric surgery might not have a passage forming section, and that such a clamp might be smaller or larger, depending on the purpose of the clamp. For example, the clamp can be one-tenth of an inch in length to partition a blood vessel, or twenty-two centimeters in length to partition a stomach. Moreover, the clamp can be configured to partition any internal organ, and can vary in length accordingly between these two example lengths, or be longer or shorter as required. Also, the guide members might have one or more protrusions aligned with the engagement feature and configured for insertion into the slot formed in the bight portion of the clamp. Moreover, it is envisioned that the installation tool can be integrated with an endoscope and/or surgical robot, and that appropriate robotic elements can be included in place of or in addition to those described above. These and other features can be included in various combinations without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following aspects. 

1. A bariatric clamp comprising: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion; a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion; a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; an inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; and a port coupled to the inflatable portion and configured to adjust inflation of the inflatable portion.
 2. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the port is disposed on the inflatable portion.
 3. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the port is disposed on the first elongated portion and coupled to the inflatable portion via a tube.
 4. The bariatric clamp of claim 3, wherein the tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the first elongated portion and is connected to the inflatable portion at an interface positioned adjacent the first elongated portion and the inflatable portion.
 5. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the port is disposed on the bight portion and coupled to the inflatable portion via a tube.
 6. The bariatric clamp of claim 5, wherein the tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the bight portion and an interior chamber of the first elongated portion, and is connected to the inflatable portion at an interface positioned adjacent the first elongated portion and the inflatable portion.
 7. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the port is a subcutaneous port, and is connected to the inflatable portion via a tube.
 8. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the inflatable portion is at least partially disposed on an interior section of the bight portion.
 9. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, further comprising a second inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp.
 10. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein the port is coupled to both the inflatable portion and the second inflatable portion, and is configured to adjust inflation of both the inflatable portion and the second inflatable portion.
 11. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein the port is disposed on the first elongated portion and coupled to the inflatable portion via a first tube, and is coupled to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 12. The bariatric clamp of claim 11, wherein the first tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the first elongated portion and is connected to the inflatable portion at a first interface positioned adjacent the first elongated portion and the inflatable portion, and wherein the second tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the second elongated portion and is connected to the second inflatable portion at a second interface positioned adjacent the second elongated portion and the second inflatable portion.
 13. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein the port is disposed on the bight portion and coupled to the inflatable portion via a first tube, and is coupled to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 14. The bariatric clamp of claim 13, wherein the first tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the bight portion and an interior chamber of the first elongated portion, and is connected to the inflatable portion at a first interface positioned adjacent the first elongated portion and the inflatable portion.
 15. The bariatric clamp of claim 14, wherein the second tube is disposed along the interior chamber of the bight portion and an interior chamber of the second elongated portion, and is connected to the second inflatable portion at a second interface positioned adjacent the second elongated portion and the second inflatable portion.
 16. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein the second inflatable portion is at least partially disposed on at least a portion of the bight portion.
 17. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein the port is a subcutaneous port, and is connected to the inflatable portion via a first tube, and is connected to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 18. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, further comprising a second port coupled to the second inflatable portion and configured to adjust inflation of the second inflatable portion.
 19. The bariatric clamp of claim 18, wherein the second port is disposed on the second elongated portion and coupled to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 20. The bariatric clamp of claim 18, wherein the second tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the second elongated portion and is connected to the second inflatable portion at a second interface positioned adjacent the second elongated portion and the second inflatable portion.
 21. The bariatric clamp of claim 18, wherein the second port is disposed on the bight portion and coupled to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 22. The bariatric clamp of claim 21, wherein the second tube is disposed along an interior chamber of the bight portion and an interior chamber of the second elongated portion, and is connected to the second inflatable portion at a second interface positioned adjacent the second elongated portion and the second inflatable portion.
 23. The bariatric clamp of claim 18, wherein the second port is a subcutaneous port, and is connected to the second inflatable portion via a second tube.
 24. The bariatric clamp of claim 9, wherein a spacing between the interior sections of the first and second elongated portions may be adjusted by inflating at least one of the inflatable portion and the second inflatable portion.
 25. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the first polymer portion, second polymer portion, and third polymer portion comprise a polymer overmold of the bariatric clamp.
 26. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the first and second elongated portions of the bariatric clamp form a partition-forming section located towards the distal end of the bariatric clamp when the bariatric clamp is in a substantially closed position, and the bight portion of the bariatric clamp forms a passage-forming section located towards the proximal end of the bariatric clamp when the bariatric clamp is in the substantially closed position.
 27. The bariatric clamp of claim 26, wherein the flexible hinge allows for fluctuation of the passage-forming section.
 28. The bariatric clamp of claim 26, wherein the inflatable portion is configured to inflate or deflate to adjust a pressure applied by the partition-forming section of the clamp.
 29. The bariatric clamp of claim 26, wherein the partition-forming section also includes the inflatable portion.
 30. The bariatric clamp of claim 29, wherein the partition-forming section also includes a second inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp.
 31. The bariatric clamp of claim 30, wherein at least one of the inflatable portion and the second inflatable portion are configured to inflate or deflate to adjust a pressure applied by the partition-forming section of the clamp.
 32. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, wherein the first elongated portion further comprises a first substrate member, and the second elongated portion further comprises a second substrate member.
 33. The bariatric clamp of claim 1, further comprising: a fastener portion disposed on the second elongated portion; and an engagement portion disposed on the first elongated portion, the engagement portion operable to engage the fastener portion to retain the bariatric clamp in a substantially closed position.
 34. A bariatric clamp installation system, comprising: a bariatric clamp, the bariatric clamp including: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion, a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion, a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp, a first inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the first elongated portion, a second inflatable portion disposed at least partially along an interior section of the second elongated portion, and a port coupled to at least one of the first and second inflatable portions and configured to adjust inflation of at least one of the first and second inflatable portions; and a bariatric clamp installation tool, the bariatric clamp installation tool including: an elongated member having a chamber extending from a proximal end of the elongated member to a distal end of the elongated member, the elongated member configured to retain the bariatric clamp in an open position along a length of the elongated member, a cable member having a proximal end and a distal end, the cable member extending along a length of the chamber of the elongated member, a handle positioned adjacent the proximal end of the elongated member and attached to the proximal end of the cable member, wherein the handle is configured to engage the cable member, and an articulating head located at the distal end of the elongated member and attached to the distal end of the cable member, wherein the articulating head is configured to articulate a portion of the bariatric clamp in response to the handle engaging the cable member.
 35. The bariatric clamp installation system of claim 34, wherein the handle includes a scissor trigger for activating the handle to engage the cable member.
 36. The bariatric clamp installation system of claim 34, wherein the handle includes a squeeze trigger for activating the handle to engage the cable member.
 37. A bariatric clamp comprising: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion; a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion; a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; a first inflatable portion disposed at least partially within the first polymer portion of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; a second inflatable portion disposed at least partially within the second polymer portion of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; and a port coupled to at least one of the first and second inflatable portions and configured to adjust inflation of the one or more of the first and second inflatable portions.
 38. A bariatric clamp comprising: a first elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a first polymer portion; a second elongated portion having a distal end, a proximal end, and a second polymer portion; a bight portion having a flexible hinge formed at least partially from a third polymer portion, the bight portion joining the first and second elongated portions at the proximal end of the first elongated portion of the bariatric clamp and the proximal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp; a first set of inflatable portions disposed at least partially within the bight portion of the bariatric clamp; a second set of inflatable portions disposed at least partially within the first and second polymer portions of the first and second elongated portions of the bariatric clamp; and a port coupled to at least one of the first and second sets of inflatable portions and configured to adjust inflation of the one or more of the first and second sets of inflatable portions.
 39. The bariatric clamp of claim 38, further comprising a tip string comprising a suture thread extending outwardly from the distal end of the second elongated portion of the bariatric clamp. 